'This was for Philly but we're still heartbroken'

AFTER collecting his eighth Tipperary senior football title, Séamus Kennedy hailed the influence of Philly Ryan for incubating Clonmel Commercials' greatest era of success.

- BY STEPHEN BARRY

The Premier football manager, who passed away last month, was at the helm for Kennedy's first triumph in 2012 to end a decade-long drought.

The club remains heartbroken over his loss and his impact will never be forgotten.

"Me and Michael (Quinlivan) were very young coming in in 2012, and Philly was manager. He took us in, looked after us, and gave us our start to cut our teeth at senior football," said three-time All-Ireland hurling champion Kennedy.

"I'll always be very, very grateful for that. He's been incredible to me over the years.