Kilkenny Celtic Challenge manager Dessie Walsh says he could not be prouder of his players after they captured the Electric Ireland Celtic Challenge All-Ireland title on Saturday.
The Cats claimed a dramatic victory over Tipperary, sealing the win with an injury-time goal to bring national silverware back to the county.
In a year that has brought plenty of disappointment for Kilkenny supporters across a number of grades, the Celtic Challenge triumph provided a welcome boost and showcased some of the county’s emerging talent.
Speaking to KCLR Sport after the final, Walsh paid tribute to the commitment and determination shown by his squad throughout the campaign.
“I was never as proud to be a part of a team,” he said.
The Kilkenny manager acknowledged the growing strength of hurling across the country, but believes the Cats can respond to the challenges ahead.
“I would not be getting too downbeat. Other counties are stepping up as well, and we have to match it, that’s it.”
Walsh also stressed how much the victory meant to everyone involved, from the players to their families.
“This is a good win, it’s important to me, it’s important to the players and all their parents. It meant the world to them.”
Despite recent setbacks at other levels, Walsh remains confident Kilkenny hurling will return stronger.
“You can’t change anything, just keep plugging away and Kilkenny will be back to where they were.”
