Back during the COVID times, I had the unfortunate privilege of facing Ballygunner in the Waterford Senior Hurling Final with my club. There were no crowds, no cheering, no families or friends. But one thing stood out more than ever: this group of players is incredibly connected. Their communication on the pitch is seamless, and their hunger is unmistakable.
Now, five years on, some familiar names like Barry Coughlan and Shane O’Sullivan have stepped away. But new blood has stepped in. All-Ireland hero from 2022, Harry Ruddle, has made the No.5 jersey his own. Some would argue it might be his time to get a shot with the Waterford Senior hurlers. Patrick Fitzgerald has emerged as a serious operator in both club and county hurling. Aaron O’Neil adds composure and strength to a back line that rarely looks under pressure.
Meanwhile, fresh faces like Connor Tobin, Mark Hartley, and Eoin Cuddihy bring raw talent that Ballygunner can mold as their careers progress. Since 2014, Ballygunner has dominated Waterford club hurling at every adult level. It’s no wonder, given the talent they consistently produce year after year.
But should this club achieve more success on the national stage? Or does the Waterford championship run so predictably that it fails to prepare Munster champions for the bigger All-Ireland series? We’ll find out after 60 minutes of action in Croke Park on Sunday. If Ballygunner win the Club All-Ireland on Sunday, they will become the 1st munster team in 50 years to win more than 1 club All-Ireland Title.
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The All-Ireland Senior Club Hurling Final — sponsored by AIB — is on Sunday, 18 January 2026 at 1:30 pm in Croke Park.
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Ballygunner (Waterford) take on Loughrea (Galway) in what promises to be a thrilling clash at HQ.
- Big Match Coverage starts at 1:10 pm with Kieran O’Connor & Andy Maloney, with thanks to George Corbett Cupra.
