Diarmuid Ryan of Clare, Doireann O’Sullivan of Cork, Shane McGuigan of Derry and Dearbhla Magee of Down have been named as the PwC GPA Players of the Month for May across the four codes of Gaelic Games.
Diarmuid Ryan fired Clare into the Munster Championship final scoring a last-minute point against Cork in front of a sold-out Cusack Park. Earlier in May, Ryan put in a solid performance as the Banner overcame Waterford in Thurles to top the Munster Hurling Championship table.
Doireann O’Sullivan guided Cork to a fourth consecutive Munster LGFA Senior Football title scoring an impressive 11 points, defeating rivals Kerry in Mallow. Earlier in May, O’Sullivan was influential as the Rebels drew against the same opposition at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.
Derry forward Shane McGuigan’s sublime finishing helped Derry win back-to-back Ulster Championship titles after a pulsating clash with Armagh. McGuigan scored seven points that day and scored his penalty in the shootout to steer his side to Ulster glory. The Slaughtneil clubman delivered another brilliant display as Derry drew with Monaghan in round 1 of the All-Ireland Championship.
Down full-back Dearbhla Magee’s solid defensive efforts helped Down become Ulster Camogie champions as they overcame a strong Antrim side at Rossa Park. Magee was awarded player of the match for her outstanding performance in the final.
“I would like to extend my congratulations to Diarmuid, Shane, Doireann, and Dearbhla for their exceptional individual contributions, which have led to them being named Player of the Month award winners for May,” said Feargal O’Rourke, Managing Partner of PwC.
“The PwC Player of the Month Awards are always highly contested each month, so to be nominated and to win is a true testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into performing at the highest level.”
“At PwC we are immensely proud to partner with the GPA and the GAA to recognise and reward all players equally”
“The four winners are exceptional ambassadors for the legion of players who have given us so many memorable moments in the games to date and we look forward to the weeks ahead with so many exciting games yet to come,” added GAA President Larry McCarthy.
“The PwC All-Stars represent the pinnacle of individual achievement in Gaelic games and these monthly awards are an important guide to setting the standard that will determine the best of the best.”
“As a former player myself I am well aware of the impact being honoured by your fellow players has,” said Ciaran Barr representing the GPA.
“That is what is so special about the PwC GAA/GPA Player of the Month Awards. They are voted for by the players. So Doireann and Dearbhla, Diarmuid and Shane, you should take great pride in being honoured by your peers and congratulations to you all.”
“Can I also take the opportunity to recognise the support of Feargal O’Rourke for these awards and the PwC All-Stars and PwC Camogie All-Stars over the years.”
“I know Feargal’s time as Managing Partner is coming to a close in the not too distant future, so I want to put on record on behalf of players both past and present our gratitude for all you have done to support us in your time at the helm at PwC. We wish you well for the future.”
The PwC GPA Women’s Player of the Month and PwC GAA/GPA Players of the Month Award winners are voted for by the GPA’s membership.
