After a six-month hiatus, inter-county action returns with the first round of the Allianz Football League, this weekend.
Allianz Insurance, today, teamed up with players from last year’s Allianz Leagues Division 1/1A finals, Mayo footballer Padraig O’Hora, Kerry footballer Paul Geaney, Cork hurler Patrick Horgan and Waterford hurler Stephen Bennett, to preview this year’s Allianz Leagues.
Inpho photographer Dan Sheridan was on hand with them to capture the picture above against the backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher.
You will see their takes on the season ahead across all media over the coming days.
The Allianz Leagues represent an opportunity, after a five-month break from competitive action and the January pre-season, to set the tone for the upcoming season.
It may be because of the longer absence, or the presence of Dublin in Division Two but there seems to be an extra edge to this campaign.
The outcome of the Allianz Football League also has a direct impact on qualification for the GAA All-Ireland Football Championship which obviously heightens the interest.
For the opening weekend of action, Mayo take on provincial rivals Galway on Saturday, 28 January, while last year’s Allianz Football League Division 1 winners, Kerry, face Donegal the following day.
Cork will play Limerick in the first round of the Allianz Hurling League on Saturday 4 February while last year’s Allianz Hurling League Division 1 winners, Waterford, will play host to Dublin in Fraher Field on Sunday 5 February.
“All of us at Allianz are delighted to be a long-term supporter of the Allianz Leagues.,” said CEO Sean McGrath.
“Our purpose at Allianz is to secure our customers futures. As we embark on our 31st year as sponsors of the Allianz Leagues, we, like GAA communities in every county in Ireland, are looking forward to witnessing the players and teams seek to realise the hopes and dreams of the communities they represent as they pursue on-field success. ”
“We wish each of the players and the 67 County Teams taking part in the Allianz Leagues all the very best for this year’s competition.”
“We are delighted that the Allianz Leagues are starting again, as they signal the onset of a new GAA intercounty season,” added GAA President Larry McCarthy.
“Allianz’s sponsorship of the National Leagues is one of the longest-standing sports sponsorships in Ireland – a testament to their commitment to supporting the GAA and communities in every county in Ireland and beyond. We look forward to many fascinating matches and wish the best of luck to all involved.”
