Laois Today: Novel hurling tournament in memory of legendary Laois hurler to get underway this evening

A novel hurling tournament in memory of a legendary Laois hurlers will get underway this evening.

Back in 2017, the people of Ballinakill and Laois GAA were in mourning following the sudden death of a great servant – Michael ‘Maggie’ Walsh.

The 64-year-old was one of Laois and Ballinakill’s most decorated players as he won several medals at club and county level.

Walsh won two Laois intermediate championships with Ballinakill – 21 years apart.

Now, an 11-aside hurling tournament involving 11 hurling clubs from Laois and Kilkenny will begin.

One of the chief organisers, Laois ladies goalkeeper Eimear Barry, explained why the people of Ballinakill decided to make this happen.

She said: “Maggie is one of Ballinakill and Laois’s most decorated players.

“Maggie’s career with Ballinakill lasted four decades and he made 122 appearances for Laois. In 1977 he was awarded Laois Hurler of the year and nominated for an All Star in 1976.

“He was also named at left half forward on the Laois Hurling Team of the Millennium.

“Maggie also made a great contribution to Avonmore factory league teams and won eight All Ireland Inter firms’ titles.

“Sadly, Maggie died suddenly in March of 2017 and is deeply missed by all in our club and community.

“We now feel the time is right to mark the fantastic contribution he made to hurling in Laois and Kilkenny.

“The response we have received from the GAA clubs is a testament to the respect Maggie is held within the hurling community.

“6 teams from Laois – Borris-Kilcotton, Abbeyleix, Ballinakill, The Harps, Castletown and Trumera, 5 teams from Kilkenny – St Martins, Tullaroan, Lisdowney, Emeralds & Fenians and Gortnahoe from Tipperary will take part in this tournament.

“We would also like to say a sincere thank you to Phelan’s Topline for coming on board as our main sponsor for this event.”

Check out the fixtures and you can follow updates on the Ballinakill GAA website.