Six of Kildare's treble-winners included in Intermediate Team of the Year
At the awards show in Croke Park last night, six Kildare players claimed their prize for being voted part of the Intermediate Team of the Year. They were Mary Hulgraine, Lauren Burke, Laoise Lenehan, Grace Clifford, Neasa Dooley, and Róisín Byrne. A goalkeeper, two defenders, a midfielder and two forwards meant that Kildare had a serious spread across the XV, with the variety of positions showing just how brilliant Kildare were from one to 15 as they claimed Division 3 glory, a Leinster Intermediate Championship and an All-Ireland Intermediate Championship.
1. Mary Hulgraine - The towering woman between the sticks was exceptional at many points during 2023 for Kildare. Her presence and shot-stopping ability was truly second to none at Intermediate grade.
2. Lauren Burke - Burke had a strong claim for Player of the Match in every final that Kildare had this year. On top of an all-round incredible season, she stood above the rest in her Leinster final performance with one of the most complete and outstanding corner-back showings you will ever see.
3. Laoise Lenehan - A player so consistently excellent that she perhaps doesn't get the plaudits that she deserves week-to-week. A commanding full-back that oversaw many potent opposition forwards fading into the background in games this year.
4. Grace Clifford - Captain fantastic, Grace Clifford does a lot more for this side than just lift trophies and make speeches. She exemplifies the leadership role on the field too. She demands the ball at all times and takes control when her team is under pressure. Her courageous play and superb ability made her the incredible leader of this incredible team.
5. Neasa Dooley - A prolific forward in every sense of the word. Dooley's ruthless finishing and raw ability are something to behold in full-flight. With 14-27 hit this season, she is well worth her place in any side.
6. Róisín Byrne - The outstanding player across the three competitions that she participated in. Byrne returned from injury at the start of 2023 and began making up for lost time at a rapid rate. Byrne hit 1-24 across the three finals that Kildare played in, she is a player for the big occasion and every occasion with her consistently excellent performances for her county.
Congratulations to the six winners and to the wider Kildare panel and management team as they scoop more awards and ones that they so richly deserve after a historic campaign.