Waterford’s hurling stars gathered in celebration this afternoon as Waterford City and County Council bestowed a civic reception on the All-Ireland Minor Hurling Champions.

The reception, held in City Hall, marked a proud moment not only for the players and management but for the entire county, recognising a historic achievement that will be remembered for generations.

The event was led by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Seamus Ryan, who praised the team’s determination, unity and resilience in capturing the All-Ireland crown. In his address, he highlighted the significance of the victory: “All-Irelands don’t come around too often in Waterford,” he said, “and when they do, occasions like this deserve to be marked in the most fitting way. This success was not just for the panel, but for every supporter in the city and county.”

Mayor Ryan emphasised that the victory was years in the making, recalling how this particular group of players first came together at underage tournaments such as the Tony Forristal competition.

“This didn’t begin last winter in training,” he said. “This began three or four years ago for that particular group of players. They worked hard, faced ups and downs, but kept fighting back – and that’s the hallmark of a great team.”

The Mayor reserved special praise for team captain James Comerford, describing his speech as one of the most powerful ever delivered in the Council Chamber by someone so young.

“At just 16 years of age, his words reflected maturity and leadership well beyond his years. He exemplifies the qualities in this group – determination, respect, and vision for the future.”

For team manager James O’Connor, who guided the side to All-Ireland glory, the day was one of pride and gratitude. Speaking after the reception, he reflected on the importance of recognising such achievements: “To win an All-Ireland Minor title is a huge thing for any county, but for us in Waterford, it’s very special. Days like this don’t come around too often, and when they do, they deserve to be acknowledged. The whole group are absolutely delighted.”

While he admitted the reality of the triumph took time to sink in, O’Connor said that the sense of community pride and joy in the county has been the most satisfying reward: “There’s been a fantastic crowd here today, people enjoying themselves, and for us to be received like this is a huge honour. It shows just how much this means to everyone in Waterford.”

If the afternoon belonged to anyone, it was captain James Comerford. In a stirring and heartfelt address, the 16-year-old reflected on the team’s journey, from the early days of gym sessions and training camps to the glory of lifting the All-Ireland trophy at Semple Stadium.

He recalled how friendships were forged across clubs and backgrounds, united by the dream of representing Waterford. “We started out as players from different clubs, but we became friends. We drove each other on, we trusted each other, and we achieved something very special together.”

Comerford spoke candidly about the team’s setbacks, including the disappointment of losing the Munster Final, which he described as the turning point that hardened their resolve for the All-Ireland series. “That loss brought it home to us – no one wanted to feel that again. It was the determination and friendship in the group that pushed us forward, and in the later stages, we played for each other as much as for ourselves.”

He also highlighted individual performances, naming teammates whose contributions defined their campaign, from defensive grit to attacking flair. “Everyone played their part,” he said, “and every player had their moment that made the difference.”

Comerford’s words went beyond recounting victories and key moments on the field. He spoke of the pride the players felt in representing their county, and the importance of bringing the All-Ireland trophy back to clubs, schools and parishes across Waterford. “Everywhere we went this summer, people reminded us what this win means – not just to us, but to Waterford as a whole. This All-Ireland title belongs to every club, every coach, every parent and every supporter who played their part in our journey.”

The captain also paid an emotional tribute to the families who had supported the panel from the very beginning. “Our mams and dads have driven every mile and struck every ball with us. We can’t thank them enough. This is their victory as much as ours.”

Perhaps most poignantly, Comerford described the impact the success has had on younger generations of hurlers. “Bringing the cup around to schools and clubs, seeing the faces of younger players who now dream of wearing the Waterford jersey – that’s been one of the most special things. Hopefully, what we’ve done will inspire them to believe they can achieve the same one day.”

Today’s reception was more than a ceremonial event; it was a reminder of what sport means to a community. The victory united generations, inspired new ambition, and rekindled belief in the potential of Waterford hurling.

Mayor Ryan summed up the feeling of pride that ran through the chamber: “This win inspired young and old alike. It wasn’t just a victory for a team; it was a victory for every person in the county who has ever picked up a hurley, stood on a sideline, or dreamed of All-Ireland glory. And I have no doubt we’ll see many of these players in the Waterford senior jersey in years to come.”

The reception honoured not only the All-Ireland champions of 2025 but also the spirit of resilience, friendship, and determination that defines the Déise.

In the words of their captain: “We’ll be forever remembered as the team of 2025 – and hopefully, it’s only the beginning.”

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