Kilkenny hurling legends Richie Hogan and Paul Murphy honoured by Danesfort GAA & Camogie Club

In a heartwarming tribute to two of Kilkenny’s most iconic hurlers, Richie Hogan and Paul Murphy, the local community of Danesfort gathered for a gala evening at Hotel Kilkenny. The event, held on Saturday evening, was hosted by Will O’Callaghan from Newstalk Off the Ball podcast.The evening celebrated the illustrious careers of these senior hurlers who have left a permanent mark on the sport and the hearts of the people.

Paul Murphy, Will O’Callaghan from Newstalk Off the Ball podcast and Richie Hogan

Richie Hogan and Paul Murphy, both retired from their county and club duties, were applauded for their exceptional contributions to the sport, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their unwavering commitment to their community. The evening was filled with touching speeches, heartfelt tributes, and nostalgic reflections on their remarkable journeys in hurling.

Addressing the crowd, Catherine Cunniffe, Chairperson of Danesfort GAA & Camogie Club expressed gratitude on behalf of the community, saying, “Thank you for the memories and for representing us at the highest level with such character, resilience, dedication, and commitment.”

The event was a poignant reminder of the profound impact these athletes had not only on the field but also off it, as they served as role models and ambassadors for their community and county. In a panel discussion, friends and family reminisced about the duo’s stellar performances, their unwavering determination, and the joy they brought to countless supporters over the years.

In her tribute to Richie Hogan, Chairperson Catherine Cunniffe remarked, “Richie, you are definitely one of the all-time greatest hurlers. You are an inspiration to so many people here in Kilkenny, and your resilience throughout your hurling career, especially during times of injury, is extraordinary.”

Richie’s proud father Sean Hogan commented “Of course we are proud of Richie, as we are equally proud of Niamh and Rachel, our other two children. They have all achieved a lot.”

He added, “I’d like to acknowledge Richie’s grandmother Eileen and grandfather Mick and what they brought to his success. They were brilliant to us as we were both working at the time. They used to take the lads to the handball alley and hurling field every evening, as well as all the matches. We are forever indebted to them for all their help.”

Similarly, Paul Murphy was celebrated for his defensive prowess and his dedication to the sport. “Paul Murphy, a four-time All-Ireland champion, one-time Union football player and nominated for Hurler of the Year twice has been a pillar of strength for our club and county. His determination, commitment, and support, both on and off the field, have been unwavering”, said Pat Treacy, of Danesfort GAA & Camogie Club and CKRC radio presenter.

The event also featured video montages highlighting both player’s skills, showcasing their abilities to save and take crucial goals, exemplifying their importance to the team.

MC Will O’Callaghan put this question to both men, “There is nothing like a club really and it’s the reason why all these people are here tonight. Where does winning the All-Ireland Club Junior Championship at Croke Park rank across your overall careers?"

Paul Murphy reflected on the significance of winning the All-Ireland Club Junior Championship 2006 at Croke Park, stating, “When you are playing with Kilkenny, you expect to play in Croke Park and in All-Ireland finals. When you’re playing Junior hurling, you don’t expect to make it to Croke Park with your Club”. 

He further emphasized, “On that day, there were about 800 people there for the Club to support us. I said to the lads in the dressing room beforehand, there can be 800 people there as opposed to 80,000 people, and it can be as special, if not more special.”

“Playing with Kilkenny, you can expect to be in Croke Park, but playing with your club, it is that bit more difficult to win club championships and particularly to get to an All-Ireland in Croke Park”, added Paul. He concluded by stating, “That’s the stuff I don’t think many clubs dream of.”

As the evening drew to a close, both Richie Hogan and Paul Murphy took to the stage to express their gratitude to the community for their unwavering support throughout their careers. Despite their numerous accolades and achievements, both players remained humble, attributing their success to hard work, dedication, and the support of their teammates and fans.

The evening served as a fitting tribute to two of Kilkenny’s most beloved hurlers, Richie Hogan, and Paul Murphy. Their legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of the community, inspiring future generations of athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

Intermediate, Junior and U22 Champions 2023

Catherine Cunniffe congratulated all teams in 2023 which was a massively successful year for our camogie teams with four teams being presented medals on the night, Roinn B Minor Camogie County Champions 2023, U22 Roinn B County Champions 2023, Junior C League runners up, and Intermediate Camogie All County League Champions2023. Comhghairdeas libh go léir on all your achievements this season.

The club also honoured JJ Reddy, with club chairperson Catherine Cunniffe noting “as we close this chapter in our club’s history, we acknowledge and appreciate the contribution of all who played a part in the JJ Reddy Run success story. Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the Reddy family, for putting your trust in our team and for allowing us the opportunity to honour JJ’s memory together. The JJ Reddy Run raised more than €100,000 for Danesfort GAA Club but more importantly it was the highlight of the club year and indeed a fitting tribute to JJ’s memory.

Ger Woodcock was also recognised for his massive service to the club as a volunteer, and John Cooney paid tribute to him for his impact on the club spanning a 40-year period.

The cast of “The First Puck” Radio play which won the National award for Best GAA Related Radio Programme 2022, first broadcast on CKRC on Broadcast February 19, 2022, were also honoured and were presented with mementos.

Also in December 2023 the Club received recognition for its commitment to the Irish language and were awarded the Joe McDonagh Bronze Medal, with John Cooney being presented with this award on the night.