Clare’s under 21 and senior All Ireland winner David McInerney was last night named the 2013 Bord Gáis Energy Player of the Year.

McInerney held off competition from twoother nominees, his Clare teammate Podge Collins and Tipperary’s Jason Forde.

McInerney put in several stunning displays for the Clare under 21 side on the way to the All-Ireland triumph, with his two consecutive man of the match performances – against Tipperary and Galway, in the Munster final and All-Ireland semi-final respectively – the standout displays. McInerney was a central and standout performer in a Clare defence that only conceded 2 goals throughout the entire championship.

McInerney was also named in the Under 21 Team of the Year, alongside 8 of his Clare teammates, earlier in the week.

Commenting on McInerney’s win, GAA President Liam O’Neill said:

“Having followed David’s progress throughout the year in what was a fantastic competition, I can’t say I am surprised with the judges’ decision. Already established as one of the finest defenders in the game at present, I wish him well ahead of what will be a hugely exciting career in the Clare and Tulla colours."

The judging panel was made up of Bord Gáis Energy Sports Ambassador and Cork selector, Ger Cunningham, Micheál Ó Dómhnaill of TG4, Bord Gáis Energy Ambassador Joe Canning and former Waterford player Ken McGrath.
Previous winners of the award include Clare’s Darach Honan (2009), Tipperary’s Seamus and Cork’s Aidan Walsh (2011).