WATCH: John Kiely’s impassioned speech after 1995 Junior B County Final victory

The Liam McCarthy cup has come back to Limerick, after 45 years, the famine is over. This young Limerick side displayed a class and maturity all summer that has been embedded in them by inspirational manager John Kiely. The Galbally man, in his second year as manager, has delivered the biggest prize in hurling.

The connection and trust between the players and Kiely is evident in all they do. Kiely was in charge of the Limerick u21 side in 2015 when they secured a first All Ireland title in thirteen years. Of the starting XV last Sunday, ten were part of that side with so many more on the panel.

Kiely has been a leader for these men for years now. Kiely, a primary school teacher, is a born leader and always has been. A video of a then, 24 year old Kiely, speaking after his side won their maiden county title in 1995 has surfaced. Kiely gives an impassioned speech reminiscent of his inspirational messages as manager of the county hurling team.

“This is without doubt the proudest moment in any man’s career. To captain his own club to the first ever hurling title to come back to their parish.”

“There’s been a long, long road. It’s been nine years since we won our last county title. This team, which I started off in U14s back in 1986, it’s definitely a fantastic moment for me.”

“I don’t care what Limerick jersey you wear, to win anything with your own club is better than anything. I don’t care what it is.”

Check out the full video here,