“Forever in our hearts, his legacy will live on.”
Tyrone star Damian Casey, who tragically passed away last summer, has been awarded the Nickey Rackard Hurler of the Year accolade.
Casey’s father Seán collected the award on behalf of his late son, and was joined in attendance by his other family members in Croke Park.
The Dungannon and Tyrone sharp shooter broke the 400-point career mark for championship scores, and scored 2-64 over the Red Hands’ six matches, including 0-14 in the final.
The Tyrone captain passed away at just 28 years old, but not without imprinting wonderful memories on his family, friends, community and the GAA.
Westmeath’s Ronan O’Toole was awarded the inaugural Tailteann Cup Footballer of the Year award – a first of its kind – while Antrim forward Conal Cunning took the Joe McDonagh Cup Hurler of the Year.
James Burke was named the Christy Ring Cup Hurler of the Year after his incredible season with Kildare, and Louth’s Darren Geoghegan is the Lory Meagher Cup Hurler of the Year.
🌟 Damian Casey is Nickey Rackard Cup Player of the Year for 2022.
❤️ Forever in our hearts. His Legacy will live on forever. pic.twitter.com/wGXW00PCqU
— GPA (@gaelicplayers) October 21, 2022
“We promote a team game but throughout Irish history there has always been a place reserved for sporting heroes and for celebrating those who are a cut above in terms of inspiration and influence,” GAA President Larry McCarthy said.
“Gathered here is a selection of the outstanding performers who lit up these competitions and played an integral role in what was yet another successful GAA inter-county season. I congratulate them all and salute all of our players who gave us such a memorable series of matches.”
Related links:
- Late Damian Casey named on Ring, Rackard and Meagher Team of the year for fourth successive year
- Tyrone postpone all weekend fixtures to mark their respect for Damian Casey
- Tyrone GAA in mourning following death of senior hurling star Damian Casey
- Life can be very cruel: Anthony Daly captures the feeling of a GAA community in shock
