2024 Munster GAA Awards – Brian Lohan named Manager of the Year

Clare’s Brian Lohan has been named Manager of the Year ahead of Saturday’s Munster GAA awards function in the Fota Island Resort.

Under Lohan’s leadership, Clare won the Allianz League and All-Ireland titles in 2024.

Kerry’s Tom O’Sullivan has been named as the Senior Footballer of the Year while other Award winners include Ciara Murphy (Ladies Footballer of the Year) and Darragh McCarthy (Under 20 Hurler of the Year).

---

Brian Lohan – Manager of the Year

A swashbuckling and tenacious full back, Brian Lohan’s many memorable performances in the number 3 shirt for Clare had already cemented his name as a legendary figure in Clare hurling. Renowned for his commanding presence at the edge of the square during Clare’s golden era, the Wolfe Tones na Sionna man was instrumental in securing two All-Ireland titles in 1995 and 1997, three Munster titles in 95, 97 and 98 and four All-Star awards in 95, 96, 97 and again in 2002. The same fearless leadership that made him one of the greatest hurlers of his generation set him apart as a manager of his native Clare when appointed in 2020.

Patrolling the sidelines, Lohan has brought his trademark determination and tactical acumen to the role, quickly transforming the Clare team into one of the most competitive sides in modern hurling. Under his guidance, Clare have reached three thrilling consecutive Munster Finals and All-Ireland Semi-Final in the same three seasons. Known for their resilience and flair they have become one of the best supported sides in the land.

2024 was the year of years for Lohan and his Clare side. After consistently being one of the frontrunners for the All-Ireland title, Clare needed a breakthrough and grabbed it with gusto in the year past. Lohan’s side annexed the Allianz Hurling League title, the county’s fifth, last April defeating Kilkenny and claiming the Banner’s First All-Ireland in 11 years in one of the most thrilling and memorable finals in generations. After the heartbreak of many near misses Clare showed a defiance, steel and resilience to claim the Liam Mac Carthy in July – all the very same hallmarks that solidified Brian Lohan’s reputation as one of the top hurlers and now managers of his time.

---

Tom O’Sullivan – Senior Footballer of the Year

Tom O’Sullivan’s stellar performances throughout the year have firmly established him as one of the premier defenders in Gaelic Football, culminating in his recognition as the Senior Footballer of the Year.

Known for his exceptional reading of the game and his ability to neutralize top attackers, O’Sullivan has been a linchpin in Kerry’s defensive structure. His season was highlighted by his remarkable consistency, as he often found himself marking and effectively shutting down some of the most prolific forwards in the game.

O’Sullivan’s versatility was on full display as he contributed not only defensively but also offensively, scoring crucial points in several matches. His tactical intelligence, speed, and agility allowed him to excel in one-on-one situations, making him a formidable opponent for any attacker.

Off the field, O’Sullivan’s dedication to his craft and his meticulous preparation have set him apart. His commitment to maintaining peak physical condition and his disciplined approach to training have been key factors in his success. This year, his contributions were instrumental in Kerry’s championship campaign, and his accolades are well-deserved

---

Darragh McCarthy – Under 20 Hurler of the Year

Darragh McCarthy has lit up the playing fields of the country all year with his top class scores from play and his pin point accuracy from placed balls, He has been a vital cog in the wheel for both club and county playing a major part in the success of the Tipperary Under 20 hurlers in 2024 stepping up to the plate at vital times none more so than in the Munster Final when he scored an outrageous point to secure victory for Tipperary.

Darragh began the year captaining Nenagh CBS to their first ever Dr. Harty Cup title and he also played a major part in Toomevara’s successful run in the Tipperary County Senior Hurling Championship in 2024. Darragh is definitely a star in the making and is sure to play a major role for club and county in the coming years.

---

Ciara Murphy – Ladies Footballer of the Year

Ciara Murphy from Keel who plays her club football with MKL Gaels was an integral part of the Kerry Senior Ladies team that won the Munster and TG4 All Ireland Championships in 2024. Ciara is one of the top markers in the country having been tasked with keeping Lauren McConville, Niamh McLaughlin and Louise Ward in check during the championship campaign. Her role was vital to Kerry’s success in 2024.

Before joining the Senior panel, Ciara has been a part of the Kerry intercounty football teams at Under 14, Under 16 and Minor level, winning All-Ireland titles along the way at Under 14 and Under 16.

Ciara has also played for MTU Tralee and was part of the 2023 team that reached the final of the HEC Giles Cup. Ciara was also part of the team that achieved back to back Lidl National League wins at Division 2 and Division 1 in 2022 and 2023. Ciara was nominated for an All Star in 2024.

---

The full list of winners were as follows –

Hall of Fame in Hurling – Anthony Daly (Clare)
Hall of Fame in Football – Larry Tompkins (Cork)
Distinguished Service Award – Pat Moore (Waterford)
Senior Hurler of the Year – Nickie Quaid (Limerick)
Senior Footballer Players of the Year – Tom O’Sullivan (Kerry)
Under 20 Hurling Player of the Year – Darragh McCarthy (Tipperary)
Under 20 Football Player of the Year – Cormac Dillon (Kerry)
Minor Hurling Player of the Year – Euan Murray (Tipperary)
Minor Football Player of the Year – Killian Dennehy (Kerry)
Camogie Player of the Year – Laura Hayes (Cork)
Handball Person of the Year – Michael Hedigan & Daniel Relihan (Cork)
Ladies Footballer of the Year – Ciara Murphy (Kerry)
Club of the Year – Sarsfields (Cork)
Manager of the Year – Brian Lohan (Clare)