After much debate, KCLR’s hurling analysts have revealed their Kilkenny Team of the Year.
This lineup, featuring top talents from across the county, includes players from clubs such as Thomastown, O’Loughlin Gaels, Bennettsbridge, Tullaroan, and Mullinavat. The team selection comprises a goalkeeper, six outstanding backs, two midfielders, and the six best forwards, chosen for their remarkable performances throughout the season.
Here’s the team:
Goalkeeper: Stephen Murphy (O’Loughlin Gaels)
Backs: Connor Murphy (Bennettsbridge), David Blanchfield (Bennettsbridge), Zach Bay Hammond (Thomastown), Eddie Donnelly (Thomastown), Jay Burke (Thomastown), and Paddy Deegan (O’Loughlin Gaels)
Midfielders: Peter MacDonald (Thomastown) and John Joe Farrell (Thomastown)
Forwards: Fionan MacKessey (O’Loughlin Gaels), Connor Heery (O’Loughlin Gaels), John Donnelly (Thomastown), Robbie Donnelly (Thomastown), Mossy Keoghan (Tullaroan), and John Walsh (Mullinavat)
Player of the Year: Thomastown’s John Donnelly
Thomastown’s John Donnelly has been named KCLR Hurling Podcast Player of the Year. The Kilkenny inter-county star played a pivotal role in leading Thomastown to their first senior county title since 1946, securing his place as one of the standout performers of the 2024 season.
Donnelly’s selection was a unanimous decision among the 11-person panel, a rare occurrence that underscores his impact. Podcast co-host Eddie Scally highlighted the significance of this consensus, noting the exceptional nature of Donnelly’s achievements.
To hear the full discussion, including details on the team selection process and the debate over players who narrowly missed out, tune into the latest episode of the KCLR Hurling Podcast, available on all major podcast platforms.
