Shane Dowling- new sponsorship a “good move by both Limerick and the hospital itself”

After Limerick added the 2019 National Hurling League title to the All-Ireland they won last August, attention now turns to the return of the Limerick SHC which begins on April 11 with a full round of games that weekend.

Ahead of the championship, Limerick senior hurlers Shane Dowling, Cian Lynch, captain Declan Hannon and manager John Kiely were at the Bon Secours Hospital in Barringtons to announce the hospital as the new sponsor of the championship.

Once again, Na Piarsaigh will enter the competition as favourites having won five titles since the turn of the decade and looking to do three in a row in 2019.

One of their standout performers in each of those triumphs, Shane Dowling spoke at the importance of the new sponsor who have worked closely with the inter-county team in recent years.

“I think it’s fantastic for a very important reason. Players get injured and to have a healthcare profession sponsoring the championship is a really good move by both Limerick county and the hospital itself.”

“To be associated with teams, especially in hurling, you’re going to get injured. From a personal level, I started a new job and I’m dealing with going into hospitals. I’ve been here (Bons Secours Hospital) numerous times and the jobs they’ve done with the new entrance and everything, it’s a really fantastic place and we’re very lucky to have it in Limerick.”

“I know sponsorship is all about finance and all that but even from a business point of view and helping people around Limerick, it’s a very good move.”

“Anyone who gets injured, this would be the first port of call and I think people around Limerick who might not be as aware of it, the facility that is there now is easily accessible which is really good.”