Respect for the Cats’ top dog.
Henry Shefflin and Brian Cody, two absolute legends of Kilkenny hurling and two men who’s names will long be revered in their county, and across the island.
As manager and star player, they won 10 All-Irelands, 13 Leinster SHC titles and six National Leagues, during their time together.
Through the good times, bad times, Lucozade promotional photo-shoot times, sub times and managerial rival times, Shefflin and Cody have been a fascinating study.
‘End of an era’ – Henry Shefflin
On Saturday afternoon the Kilkenny County Board confirmed the news that Brian Cody, after more than 23 years at the helm, was stepping down from his role as senior hurling manager.
Tributes have been flowing in for the serial winner, all day, but the tribute paid by Henry Shefflin, this evening, had a lovely ring to it.
‘End of an Era. Memories which will be treasured forever. Best wishes Brian.’
End of an Era, Memories which will be treasured forever. Best wishes Brian. https://t.co/FeLxuWBVcE
— Henry Shefflin (@ShefflinHenry) July 23, 2022
‘We are aware of the huge debt we owe Brian Cody’
In announcing that Brian Cody was standing down as Kilkenny hurling boss, earlier today, Conor Denieffe of the county board stated:
‘On behalf of Kilkenny people everywhere, Kilkenny County Board extends sincere gratitude to Brian for his life time of contribution to the county and the commitment and passion he brought as a player and as manager, working tirelessly with a single aim, to do what was best for Kilkenny hurling.
‘The Board would also like to acknowledge the bond Brian helped create between Team Management, Players, County Board, Clubs and Supporters Clubs as all worked seamlessly together in preparing our teams while organising and promoting our games.
‘We are aware of the huge debt we owe Brian for the wonderful successes and occasions we have enjoyed as we watched the teams he created play and succeed. Wherever and whenever our games are discussed in the future, Brian Cody’s achievements will be the benchmark managers will be measured by. We wish Brian all the best in the future.’
The Kilkenny statement also noted that ‘the process of appointing a new Kilkenny Senior Hurling team manager will now begin’.
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