'Your victory is an inspiration': Ballygunner GAA honoured at 'prestigious' Civic Reception
This follows on from their victory at the All-Ireland Club Senior Hurling Championship
Waterford City and County Council recently hosted a Civic Reception at City Hall in honour of the Ballygunner Senior Hurling team. This follows on from their victory at the All-Ireland Club Senior Hurling Championship earlier this year.
The reception recognised another landmark achievement for the club, who secured a second All-Ireland title in January, defeating Loughrea of Galway in Croke Park. The title adds to an extraordinary run of success for Ballygunner, who have also dominated the Munster and Waterford club championships in recent years.
Players, management, club officials, families and invited guests gathered at City Hall as councillors and officials paid tribute to the club, which has contributed to sport and community life in Waterford.
Chairing the proceedings, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seamus Ryan, praised the dedication and consistency shown by the club over many years. “The players and management continue to contribute to Ballygunner and Waterford’s sporting history. They inspire the younger players coming through the ranks to follow in their footsteps and keep the winning streak going,” he said.
The Mayor also acknowledged the wider Ballygunner community, including coaches, volunteers, supporters and families who have helped build one of the country’s leading hurling clubs. Under the management of Jason Ryan and co-captained by Peter Hogan and Michael Mahony, Ballygunner delivered a composed and disciplined performance to claim the Tommy Moore Cup in January.
The club’s achievements have been recognised nationally, with eight Ballygunner players named on the AIB GAA Club Hurling Team of the Year, while Dessie Hutchinson was also named AIB Club Hurler of the Year.
Formally proposing the motion, Cllr Adam Wyse said, “To the players and management, on behalf of the Council and the people we represent, I congratulate you. Your victory is an inspiration and a reminder of what can be achieved with belief, teamwork and determination.”
The motion was seconded by Cllr Declan Barry, who congratulated the team and management by saying, “This Civic Reception is a prestigious occasion, and rightly so, because what we are celebrating here is another victory of one of Waterford’s most decorated clubs. These players have stood shoulder to shoulder and delivered brilliant performances over and over.”
Speaking at the reception, manager Jason Ryan said, “This reception caps off an incredible season that will be filled with experiences and memories that we will never forget.
“Togetherness is the strength of the Ballygunner Senior Hurlers. Our committee, under the guidance of Dave Sheahan, our support team of analysts, doctors, physios, coaches, selectors, trainers, kit men, secretaries, and psychologists…they all worked together with a clear focus to perform on the pitch,” he added.
Mr Ryan acknowledged the families, partners, friends, and supporters who were there for the team every day and thanked them for their belief, patience, understanding and love.
Councillors also highlighted Ballygunner’s strong commitment to youth development and community involvement, with the club continuing to play a central role in sporting life across the parish. Their success captured the imagination of supporters across Waterford and cemented the club’s place among the modern greats of the game.
The Civic Reception on May 1 formally recognised Ballygunner’s outstanding contribution to Waterford sport and marked another proud chapter in the club’s history.