Clifford and McGrath claim top honours at PwC All-Star Awards
The PwC All-Star Awards went to two outstanding standouts tonight as Kerry’s David Clifford was named Footballer of the Year and Tipperary’s John McGrath collected the Hurler of the Year award at a glittering ceremony in Dublin’s RDS. The event, attended by the sport’s most celebrated players and coaches, crowned the season’s elite after a year of dramatic finishes and memorable moments.
Footballer of the Year: Clifford’s remarkable season
David Clifford’s rise to footballing stardom was a defining story of the year for Kerry. The imposing forward demonstrated a blend of blistering pace, accuracy and leadership that helped drive his county deep into championship contention. Observers noted his ability to influence games from open play and when the pressure mounted, Clifford delivered with crucial scores that consistently shifted momentum in Kerry’s favor.
Clifford’s Footballer of the Year award is seen by many as a reflection of the all-around impact he has on the game. Beyond gaudy statistics, his presence on the field elevates teammates and stretches opposing defenses, creating space for others while continually posing a scoring threat. The win adds another layer to a career already studded with accolades and suggests Clifford may remain a central figure in Gaelic football’s future storylines.
Hurler of the Year: McGrath’s influence across Tipp
John McGrath, representing a resurgent Tipperary, secured the Hurler of the Year honour after guiding his team through a demanding season with consistency and flair. McGrath’s ability to control games from the half-forward line, coupled with his tenacity in attack, underscored a campaign characterized by pivotal scores and high-level playmaking. His performances bore the hallmarks of a player who can influence outcomes on both ends of the pitch, a factor that clearly impressed the All-Star voters.
The Hurler of the Year award recognizes not just talent but also a player’s capacity to lift a team during challenging moments. McGrath delivered those moments for Tipp, turning tight matches in their favour and contributing when it mattered most. The accolade seals a landmark year for a player who has become a central figure in football and hurling circles alike, embodying the dual-vision that defines modern all-star success.
Young Hurler of the Year and other recognitions
As part of the evening’s honours, the Young Hurler of the Year award highlighted the sport’s brightest up-and-coming talents. The category serves as a barometer for the next generation and often points to future senior stars who will shape the game’s landscape in the years ahead. Alongside the top two prizes, a constellation of other all-star selections acknowledged consistency, skill, and contribution across club and county lines.
What the awards mean for the Gaelic games landscape
Tonight’s announcements reaffirm the depth of talent across both Gaelic football and hurling. For Clifford and McGrath, the recognitions mark a defining chapter in their careers, validating years of hard work and perseverance. For supporters, the awards provide a moment of celebration and a reminder of why Gaelic games remain central to Irish sporting culture. As teams prepare for the next season, both players and their counties will carry the inspiration of an All-Star year that highlighted performance, leadership and teamwork at the highest level.
Looking ahead
With the 2025 season in the rear-view mirror, anticipation is high for the next campaign. Coaches will study the trends that defined this year’s All-Star selections, while clubs will look to build on the foundations laid by Clifford, McGrath, and their peers. The PwC All-Star Awards not only celebrate individual brilliance but also reinforce the enduring appeal of Gaelic games as a collective pursuit of excellence.
