REVEALED: Huge Kilkenny family connection to inspirational Mayo footballer
Tommy Conroy, who made a valuable impact from the bench by scoring two important points during the closing stages, has strong family roots in Kilkenny
There was a special Kilkenny connection to Mayo's historic All-Ireland Senior Football Championship triumph as the county ended a 75-year wait for Sam Maguire with victory over Kerry.
Mayo claimed their fourth All-Ireland senior football title with a thrilling 1-20 to 1-17 win over Kerry in a captivating and fiercely contested final, sparking celebrations across the county and beyond.
Among those playing a key role in the famous victory was substitute Tommy Conroy, who made a valuable impact from the bench by scoring two important points during the closing stages.
The Mayo forward also has strong roots in Kilkenny through his family. Conroy is the grandson of the late Jim and Dora Ryan of Market Street, Castlecomer.
Family members in Kilkenny were following every kick of the ball, with aunt Marion and uncle Liam undoubtedly celebrating wildly when the final whistle confirmed Mayo's long-awaited success.
Conroy has always been proud of his ‘Comer heritage while forging his football career in Mayo. He lines out at senior level for The Neale club and has become an inspirational figure after overcoming serious injury setbacks to return to the highest level of the game.
His contribution in Croke Park added another memorable chapter to Mayo's historic day, while giving those in ‘Comer and across Kilkenny another reason to celebrate as one of their own helped bring Sam Maguire back to Mayo for the first time since 1951.
For the Ryan family and the wider ‘Comer community, it was a proud occasion as Kilkenny links were represented on what was undoubtedly one of the biggest days in Gaelic football history.