Hoogen Sports: Cork's Conor Counihan nets top GAA award:

22 January, 2011

Cork's Conor Counihan nets top GAA award:

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS: CORK: 2010 All-Ireland GAA Senior Football Champions

Conor Counihan was named the 96FM and C103FM Sports Star of the Year at a gala dinner at the Rochestown Park Hotel in Cork last night.
The awards, in association with the hotel, recognised the Cork senior football manager as he brought Sam Maguire home to Leeside for the first time in 20 years. On accepting the award, and in typical Counihan fashion, he was fast to say that he was only part of a massive team who ensured Sam came home with them. He praised all involved in this achievement, especially the players, and said it was a privilege to manage such a talented squad.
He said they are determined to try to retain the Cup, but that there was a long journey ahead before that, but hopefully it would be a successful one.

Cork captain Canty with Cork's Christy Cooney on his right

Guest of honour on the night was Christy Cooney, GAA president, who said he was delighted to present the Cup to Cork captain Graham Canty on the day of the Final. He also gave a special mention to the minor team, who were heroic, but, sadly defeated by one point in their Final.
Christy went on to say that we are living in tough times and said that the spirit of the GAA, through its clubs, was vital during the recession.

Cork so nearly did the 2010 Senior and Minor Football Double

"GAA clubs are the lifeblood of the community in many parts of Cork and all over Ireland. In these times we need to work together to support our players and others who are going through tough times," said Cooney. "We have a responsibility to support our own and to look out for each other and with that type of support, we can get through these difficult times."

Christey also congratulated the three award winners on the night, with Teddy McCarthy receiving the 96FM and C103FM Distinguished Career Award and Thomas Clancy,

the inaugural winner of the Kieran O'Driscoll Award. Kieran, who passed away last year, was a commentator on 96FM and C103 and promoted underage GAA in his roles with St. Brogan's and Kilbrittain.