Hannon on Success & Setbacks as Limerick Look Forward to Rebel Rematch

Limerick will do battle with a familiar foe in Cork this weekend as all roads lead to Croke Park for the All Ireland Semi Final and while Limerick have enjoyed a 6th Munster title on the bounce, Declan Hannon knows his team cannot dwell too long on past successes.

“You can’t afford to be… looking back at a good day when there’s another one coming around the corner.” said Declan Hannon who was speaking at eir HSQ  

The 2024 campaign has seen plenty of chopping and changing in Limerick’s personnel with injury ruling out Sean Finn, Darragh O’Donovan and Peter Casey for large spells of the season. The Adare clubman missed out on the latter stages of the 2023 campaign with injury and stressed that the squad depth in 2024 has been crucial in Limerick’s success to date.

“We’ve been hit with a lot of setbacks… frustrating for players, but that’s what a panel of players is there for. If you’re going through a tough time… someone there beside you will pick you up.”

Hannon expanded on his personal experiences with injury, explaining how he has managed to stay motivated and support the team even when sidelined. “It was frustrating, but it wasn’t the only one at the time… we could feel sorry for each other together.”

Despite the sacrifices, Hannon garners immense satisfaction from playing at the highest level stressing that enjoyment is crucial, not just in sports but in all walks of life.

“I’ve always loved it and enjoyed the competitive side of it… if you’re doing something that you’re not enjoying, what’s the point?”

The success of John Kiely’s team is driven by a combination of internal motivation, high standards, and strong management with Hannon acknowledging the impact of the younger players on the current campaign.

“We’ve had players come into the panel who have pushed standards again… a group of players who have serious internal motivation to get better.”

With ticket sales for the semi final humming along nicely, Hannon knows the importance of the Limerick support. He also knows the importance of staying on the field after games to sign hurleys and jerseys and to accept the accolades of the supporters.

“The majority of lads give maybe 20 minutes signing bits and pieces for kids… but it comes to a stage you need to get off.”

“I appreciate where supporters are coming from. I was a child before and I couldn’t wait to get on to the field and try to meet a couple of the players and say hello to the or well done or whatever. So I have to respect the supporters as well. They’re paying money to go and see match . . .. . t’s part and parcel of the match”

eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications provider, is calling on GAA clubs across the country to take part in the ‘eir for all’ Poc Tapa Challenge to be in with a chance to win up to €5,000 for their club and the chance to play on the hallowed turf of Croke Park on All Ireland Semi-Final Day. Find out more here