Leinster GAA honours Laois legend on historic day for Louth in Croke Park

Laois GAA has congratulated one of Laois Gaelic Football's history makers, who Leinster GAA honoured on what was also a historic day for Louth in the provincial final.

The win for Louth over Meath in the 2025 Leinster GAA Gaelic Football Championship Final would surely have brought back fond memories of a similarly historic win in 2003 for Brian Beano McDonald with Laois.

Regarded as one of the best to wear the blue and white for Laois, Beano now stands among the elite in Leinster Gaelic Games following his induction into the Leinster GAA Hall of Fame on Leinster Final Day. 

Laois GAA extended their best wishes to the Arles Killeen Clubman who won a Leinster Final with Laois in 2003, who they said was a legend of Laois sport.

"Massive congratulations to the legendary Brian 'Beano' McDonald on his richly deserved induction into the Leinster Hall of Fame at Croke Park today (Sunday, May 11).

"His passion for the game left an indelible mark on teammates, opponents, and supporters alike. This honour is a fitting tribute to a true icon of our sport – well done, Beano.

IN PICTURES: Beano stars for LAOIS

Beano was lining out for Club and County at the age of 17. He won two All-Ireland Football Championship Minor titles, three minor Leinster Championship titles before making his senior championship debut while still playing minor football in 1998.

Also in 1998, McDonald lined out for Laois Under 21 team who contested the All-Ireland final against Kerry. He also played for the Laois Minors against Tyrone in the All-Ireland Minor championship final in 1998.

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In 2003, the past pupil of Knockbeg College, scored 1-2 to win the Leinster senior football championship final against Kildare. It was the first victory for Laois since 1946.

Since his days on the playing field, McDonald has filled key selector roles with Laois Minors and Coaching selector role with Laois Senior football.