Willie picks up March accolade

Having given over 40 years both academically and sporting wise to Mitchelstown CBS, it was fitting that in recognition of winning the Post Primary All-Ireland Hurling title that Willie Duggan was the March recipient of the 96FM/C103 GAA Sports Star award in association with the Rochestown Park Hotel.

Willie, a proud Kildorrery man was delighted to be honoured: “I really am thrilled to be accepting this award and it’s an honour that will stay with me for a long time.”

Reflecting on the campaign, Willie said it was special to win a hurling title. “The school is more renowned for their football tradition but with this squad we knew we had a good chance and that is how it panned out, we won some great games with a special group of players.”

Willie also paid tribute to his fellow selectors Anthony Nash and Declan Masterson, who along with the Principal Mary Hannon were in attendance.

Several member of the winning team including the captains Luke Keating and Shane Looney were there to acknowledge Willie’s contribution to hurling and football in the school.

County Board Chairman Marc Sheehan in congratulating Willie said: “This is a very special occasion as Willie has made a marvellous contribution of promoting our games in the school and I am really delighted to be here, while also heartiest congratulations to the players on a wonderful achievement.”

Kieran McGeary 96FM and Steve Cox Rochestown Park Hotel also congratulated Willie on his well deserved award and the players for their part in winning the All-Ireland.Willie now joins the previous monthly winners in this the 20th year of the very prestigious awards scheme, Ballygiblin’s Shane Betson was the January recipient while UCC’s Dylan Foley was the February winner.

The gala banquet will be held on 26 January 2024.