The 2024 Electric Ireland Hurling Minor Star Team of the Year has been unveiled, celebrating the standout young hurlers who have made their mark on the championship.
Among these exceptional talents, Kilkenny is proudly represented by four players who have played pivotal roles in their county’s journey to the All-Ireland final.
Larry Phelan, Jack Dollard, Kevin Buggy, and Jake Mullen have all been recognized for their outstanding performances throughout the season.
Larry Phelan (Kilkenny and James Stephens)
Larry Phelan’s selection in the full-back line is a testament to his resilience and skill, particularly under pressure. Despite Kilkenny’s early setbacks in the Electric Ireland Leinster Minor Hurling Championship (MHC), Phelan remained a rock in defense, crucially stepping up when it mattered most. In the Leinster final against Dublin, Phelan showcased his defensive prowess, helping to hold Dublin to just 1-9 and playing a key role in securing the provincial title. His ability to marshal the backline and nullify top attackers has marked him as one of the brightest defensive talents in minor hurling.
Jack Dollard (Kilkenny and Glenmore)
Jack Dollard’s impact on Kilkenny’s campaign became glaringly obvious during his absence in their early defeat to Wexford. Once he returned, he was instrumental in Kilkenny’s resurgence, especially in the half-back line, where his steady hand and tactical awareness were vital. Dollard’s performances in the latter stages of the championship, particularly in the dramatic All-Ireland semi-final win over Clare, underscored his importance to the team. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions helped Kilkenny navigate their way to the All-Ireland final.
Kevin Buggy (Kilkenny and Erin’s Own)
Kevin Buggy’s inclusion in the team is richly deserved, particularly after his heroic display in the All-Ireland semi-final against Clare, a match that went down to the wire after 90 minutes of intense hurling. Buggy, who was named Player of the Match, was a driving force for Kilkenny, contributing two points from play and influencing the game at every turn.
Jake Mullen (Kilkenny and Shamrocks Ballyhale)
Jake Mullen has been a model of consistency throughout the championship, particularly when it came to the pressure of placed balls. His composure in high-stakes moments was crucial, especially in the victories over Galway and Dublin, and in the tense, extra-time shootout against Clare in the All-Ireland semi-final. Mullen’s ability to deliver under pressure made him an invaluable asset to Kilkenny, with his performances from frees often providing the edge needed to secure victory.
The Full 2024 Electric Ireland Hurling Minor Star Team of the Year
- Seán Kelly (Galway and St Thomas’)
- Sean McNamara (Clare and Clooney-Quin)
- Cathal O’Reilly (Tipperary and Holycross-Ballycahill)
- Larry Phelan (Kilkenny and James Stephens)
- Jack Dollard (Kilkenny and Glenmore)
- Jonah Donnellan (Galway and Pádraig Pearses)
- Dara Kennedy (Clare and Ballyea)
- Tiarnan Ryan (Tipperary and Holycross-Ballycahill)
- Kevin Buggy (Kilkenny and Erin’s Own)
- Jake Mullen (Kilkenny and Shamrocks Ballyhale)
- Euan Murray (Tipperary and Durlas Óg)
- Billy O’Brien (Tipperary and Nenagh Éire Óg)
- Seán O’Brien (Wexford and Rathgarogue Cushinstown)
- Brian Callanan (Galway and Ardrahan)
- Cillian Minogue (Tipperary and Durlas Óg)
