Kieran Donaghy’s heartfelt account of his life on and off the field and court, ‘What Do You Think of That’ written with Kieran Shannon, has been named the winner of the eir Sport Sports Book of the Year.
Donaghy picked up his prize at a ceremony in Dun’s Library at the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin yesterday afternoon.
‘What Do You Think of That’ recounts the two-time All-Star’s football career, from the time he burst onto the senior inter-county scene in 2006 to his more recent injury-affected seasons.
Aside from his sporting achievements, Donaghy’s autobiography looks at parts of his life that the public were not aware of, including the roller-coaster relationship he had with his father.
The book also looks at how he struggled throughout his childhood and adult life as a result of his dyslexia, and how he came very close to giving up on his sporting career but for the influence of a couple of American Basketball players who mentored him.
It took the prize ahead of strong competition. The final shortlist included; ‘What Do You Think of That?’ written by Kieran Donaghy with Kieran Shannon; Rob Heffernan’s autobiography, ‘Walking Tall’; ‘Out of Control’ by Cathal McCarron with Christy O’Connor; ‘The Battle’ by Paul O’Connell and ‘Spirit of ’58’ written by Evan Marshall.
Donaghy picked up a cash prize of €1,500 and his book will also receive €10,000 worth of TV advertising on eir Sport along with a specially commissioned trophy in recognition of his achievement.
“I’m delighted to win this award because it means that I’ve been recognised by some of the best sports journalists in Ireland,”said Donaghy as he accepted his award.
“The quality of Irish sport writing is so high and to come out on top this year makes me extremely proud. This is something I’ve worked very hard for so to win this award is a really special feeling.”
“Ireland is recognised as a nation of great writers, so the competition was always going to be difficult, added Ruth Hegarty of Publishing Ireland.
“Kieran’s prose and humanity carries you to the last page and I congratulate him. Trinity Mirror have found a talent; I look forward to what sports books publishers will find in 2017.”
“This is the second year of the eir Sport Sports Book of The Year award and we are delighted for Kieran Donaghy,” said Brian Quinn, Operations Director of eir Sport.
“His story is a roller-coaster ride that ties in life, sport and everything in between. It is truly a memorable read.”
This is the second year of an initial four year commitment eir Sport has made to this awards scheme with John Leonard’s ‘Dub Sub Confidential’ winning last year. 20 books in total were entered before being whittled down to a five book shortlist from which today’s winner was chosen.
