Handball legends to be recognised in Kilkenny

A monument to pay tribute to the legends of Kilkenny handball is set to be erected in the next six months, according to Mayor Joe Malone.

Sites across the city are currently being scouted as possible locations for the artwork. 

Cllr Malone says the idea has been in the pipeline for more than two years, and he hopes it can encourage stars of the future to take up the sport, highlighting the great work of Kilkenny clubs.

In August 2016, the passing of the legendary Michael ‘Ducksie’ Walsh (pictured) brought much sadness to the handball community in Kilkenny and further afield. Following his death, Ducksie’s home area of the Butts called for a statue to pay tribute to the local legend. Seven years on, Ducksie and some of Kilkenny’s finest players may be set to receive their much deserved recognition.

Fellow Butts man Michael Clifford, a member of the well-known sporting family, hailed the parish’s handball heroes. "The Butts’ handball alleys have produced some of the greatest handballers ever to play the game," he said.

Kilkenny Handball Board Secretary Martin Lalor also welcomed the developments, praising the success of the hurling statue in Kilkenny City and believes a similar structure will pay due respects to local players.