We’re fairly sure Kerry fans don’t care what the cost of success is if Sam Maguire winters in the Kingdom. But spending almost €1 million for September glory is pretty steep.
It seems the difference between winning and losing at semi final stage in the All-Ireland championship is about €200k. Eek.
Well that’s according to the figures that will emerge from the Kerry County Board AGM next Monday.
Kerry treasurer Weeshie Lynch’s report will show that Kerry spent an eye-popping €972,613 this year on their senior team compared to €755,000 in 2013.
Kerry were defeated by Dublin in a thrilling All-Ireland semi final in 2013 while you hardly need reminding that they beat Donegal this year to win their 37th All-Ireland title.
That massive jump in spending has been offset by an increase in gate receipts as well as a bigger response from Kerry supporters to fundraising initiatives.
The Kerry players can also look forward to a rather nice holiday with over €300k in the kitty to pay for plenty of sun-tan to avoid the ‘Gooch’ getting sunburnt and extra-long board shorts for Kieran Donaghy.
Despite all the money spent in 2014 the board are still set to record a profit of approximately €131k, which just shows the incredible amounts of money now surrounding top level GAA in this country.
H/t to the Irish Examiner
