Stephen Is Player of the League REPORT

The GAA/GPA All-Stars sponsored by Opel are delighted to announce Stephen
O’Neill (Tyrone) and Lester Ryan (Kilkenny) as the Players of the League in football
and hurling respectively, marking their outstanding performances throughout the
spring campaigns. Both selections, chosen by the inter-county playing body, reflect
the consistently high standards set by both counties.
O’Neill was one of the shining lights in Tyrone’s march to the league final, rolling
back the years with a number of excellent displays throughout the county’s league
campaign. The mercurial forward is back to his best, peaking in the semi-final as he
clinched Tyrone’s 2-15 to 2-11 win over Kildare, with two sensational points.
Newcomer Ryan was a stand-out performer for eventual league winners Kilkenny at
midfield, scoring three points in their semi-final destruction of Galway, and producing
a superb display in the final against Tipp. His consistent contribution marks him
as one to watch for the defending All-Ireland champions in the weeks and months
ahead. Commenting on the announcement, Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael, Liam Ó
Néill said, “I’m delighted to pass on my congratulations to two of the best players our
leagues threw up this year, and it’s no surprise that Lester Ryan and Stephen O’Neill
are the two being honoured here today.”
“Lester underlined his promise over the course of the competition with a string of
performances that bode well for Kilkenny’s upcoming defence of their All-Ireland
crown. Stephen was once again majestic during Tyrone’s run to the league final and
I look forward to seeing him in action against Donegal in the coming weeks. Being acknowledged by your peers is very special and I thank Opel who partner us in acknowledging excellence in both football and hurling.”
Dessie Farrell, CEO of the Gaelic Players Association added: “Congratulations to
Stephen and Lester in being recognised by their peers for their contribution during
the Leagues. Representing both ends of the spectrum in terms of experience
their performances reflect the importance and standard of the competition. We’re
delighted that these awards now kick-start the championships and we look forward
with great anticipation to the months ahead. Thanks to all the players and to Opel for
their great support of our games and our players. Commenting on the announcement, Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel
Ireland, said, “We are delighted to continue our support of the Gaelic Games with the sponsorship of the GAA GPA All Stars Awards, now in its third year. It’s very important for Opel Ireland to recognise the achievements of our players and it’s with
great pleasure that we announce Stephen O’Neill and Lester Ryan as the GAA GPA
All Stars Players of the League, proudly sponsored by Opel.”