Honan scoops inaugural award
Clare forward Darach Honan has named as the inaugural Bord Gis Energy Breaking Through Player of the Year.
The Clonlara clubman was picked from a shortlist that included heavy hitters Joe Canning and Richie Hogan to claim the 1,000 prize. Also in the running were Honan’s team mates John Conlon and Colin Ryan and Kilkenny’s John Mulhall.
Honan was selected as the outstanding player of the 2009 Bord Gis Energy GAA Hurling U-21 Championship following the pivotal role he played in bringing Clare to their first ever All-Ireland final at U-21 level.
It was a historic victory for the Banner and, despite having only just emerged from the county’s Minor set up last year, the forward put in two Man of the Match performances during the journey, against Waterford in the Munster Final and in the thrilling semi final encounter with Galway.
On receiving the award, Honan said: 'I am absolutely delighted to have been selected for this award and for me it caps a hugely memorable year. To be recognised at this level is very special.
’ am very proud to have played a part in Clare’s first ever U-21 Hurling All-Ireland victory and I would like to pay special tribute to all my team mates and the coaching and management staff who have all worked so hard over the past few months.
‘I hope now we can build and develop on our success and look forward to doing so in 2010.’
The selection panel was completed by RT’s Marty Morrissey, Michel O Domhnaill of TG4 and the GAA’s Sponsorship Manager, Paul Dermody and Bord Gis Energy Sport Sponsorship Manager Ger Cunningham.