Kilkenny GAA’s Performance Lead, Michael Fennelley, an 8-time All-Ireland winner, is urging all Kilkenny supporters to come out in full force and support the minor team in their highly anticipated final against Tipperary this Saturday.
Fennelley emphasized the rarity and difficulty of winning an All-Ireland medal at the minor level, saying, “To win an All-Ireland medal at minor level is very difficult and you might have one, if you’re lucky to have two, opportunities to win one.” He continued, “We’re hoping these young boys on Saturday will claim their first All-Ireland medal, but we need huge support from our supporters.”
He passionately called on fans to show their pride and solidarity, stating, “So please get your ticket, wear the black and amber, and come on and drive these boys on our own home turf here in UPMC Nowlan Park this Saturday.”
π °π »π »-π Έππ ΄π »π °π ½π ³ π Όπ Έπ ½π Ύπ π ·πππ »π Έπ ½π Ά π ΅π Έπ ½π °π »@MFennellyKK βππππ πππ π©ππππ & π¨ππππ & ππππ ππ & π ππππ πππππ ππππ ππβ
— Kilkenny GAA (@KilkennyCLG) June 24, 2024
Letβs get behind our minor panel & management team this Saturday in UPMC Nowlan Park at the @ElectricIrelandβ¦ pic.twitter.com/9mQ2Yk0s54
The upcoming clash between Kilkenny and Tipperary carries immense significance, with both teams tied at 21 All-Ireland minor titles each and vying for a record-breaking 22nd win. For Kilkenny, this match is even more crucial, as they have not claimed the championship since 2014. Players from that victorious team, like Conor Delaney, Tommy Walsh, and Liam Blanchfield, have since made their mark on the senior stage.
The current crop of Kilkenny minors now has a chance to end a decade-long drought and usher in a new era of success. This match not only offers the opportunity to break the tie with Tipperary but also to set the tone for what could become a fresh, long-lasting rivalry with these Tipperary players.
Fennelley himself knows the thrill of winning an All-Ireland minor medal. On 14 September 2003, he was selected at midfield when Kilkenny faced Galway in the All-Ireland Minor final and claimed an All-Ireland medal following a thrilling 2-16 to 2-15 victory.
As the match approaches, Fennelley’s call to action resonates with the community, reminding fans that their support can make all the difference. This Saturday, Kilkenny fans have the chance to witness history and be part of a momentous occasion at UPMC Nowlan Park.
