In a boost for Kilkenny hurling fans, the towering presence of Walter Walsh has confirmed his commitment to the county team for the upcoming 2024 season.
The 32-year-old, who has been a stalwart of the Kilkenny panel for the past 11 seasons, recently revealed to South East Radio that he is gearing up for an impressive 12th consecutive year representing the Cats.
“I’ve decided to go back, there could be silverware in that Kilkenny team next year, hopefully, but again you don’t know. My focus is primarily on Tullogher at the moment, we’ll just keep driving on it here
Walsh’s decision comes on the heels of an eventful period for the versatile hurler. Currently, a key member of the Tullogher Rosbercon team, Walsh is actively involved in the preparations for the Junior Leinster final scheduled for next month. The prospect of a Leinster title adds an exciting dimension to Walsh’s already illustrious hurling career.
Tullogher Rosbercon’s journey to the Junior Leinster final gained momentum with a formidable performance in the semi-finals, where they triumphed over Fr. O’Regans Craanford. The match saw Walsh, along with teammate Danny Glennon, showcasing their scoring prowess by netting crucial goals in a commanding 2-17 to 18-point victory.
Looking ahead, Tullogher Rosbercon is set to face Carrig and Riverstown in the Junior Leinster final, a highly anticipated encounter slated for Saturday, December 9th, at 1 pm. As they vie for provincial glory, Walsh’s experience and scoring ability will undoubtedly be crucial for his team’s aspirations.
See also: “It allowed Wally time to get the body right”
Walsh’s recent celebration of his wedding and honeymoon has added a personal touch to this chapter of his career. Tullogher’s manager, Michael Doyle, expressed his delight at Walsh’s return, noting the positive impact of the hurler’s well-deserved time away.
“Like obviously Kilkenny lost the All-Ireland final, and then he got married, and I think the honeymoon rejuvenated him. He was gone there for two or three weeks. He had that downtime that sometimes you don’t get as a county player. But it allowed Wally time to get the body right, get the head right after coming back like he’s just given everything a lift.”
This period of rest and celebration has evidently revitalized Walsh, enhancing both his physical and mental readiness for the challenges that lie ahead. Kilkenny fans can now anticipate the return of a rejuvenated Walter Walsh, as he brings his wealth of experience and formidable skills to the forefront in the pursuit of hurling success for the Cats in 2024.