Herity brings Kilkenny insight to Tipperary camp ahead of semi-final showdown
Tipperary will face Kilkenny on Sunday
As Tipperary prepare to lock horns with Kilkenny in yet another high-stakes All-Ireland semi-final, a familiar face to Cats fans will be watching from the opposite side of the white line this time – and he’s wearing blue and gold.
David Herity, the former Kilkenny goalkeeper and five-time All-Ireland winner, has been a notable addition to the Tipperary backroom team this season. Known for his intensity and deep tactical acumen, Herity’s presence has brought a new dimension to the Premier County’s preparations.
“David is an excellent coach and has brought huge contributions this year to what we’ve been trying to do,” said selector Declan Laffan, speaking ahead of the showdown. “He’s all-in. You don’t give eight or nine months with a team unless you’re fully committed.”
Herity’s role adds an extra layer of intrigue to the semi-final narrative. Not only does he bring coaching expertise, but also an insider’s knowledge of the Kilkenny mindset, forged from years within Brian Cody’s notoriously competitive setup.
“He’ll probably have a bit of inside knowledge,” Laffan acknowledged. “Whether it will benefit us or not, we won’t know until the game plays out.”
For Herity, now immersed in Tipp’s system, it’s a full-circle moment – guiding one great hurling power while trying to outwit another. And according to Laffan, that outside voice has been a welcome influence in the Tipp camp.
“He’s all-in. You don’t give eight or nine months with a team unless you’re fully committed.” he said.