Stephen Bennett is the April winner of the Waterford Sports Awards in association with WLR and the Granville Hotel.

The Ballysaggart man starred for the Waterford senior hurlers as they captured the Division 1B Allianz National Hurling League title – hitting 0-12 in the Deise’s 1-27 to 2-20 victory against Offaly at Pairc Ui Chaoimh.

Bennett scored 1-48 in total in Waterford’s National League campaign, 0-12 of which came from play. Speaking when accepting the award, Bennett said: “It’s lovely. I’ve had a few over the years. I’ve been lucky enough – even back when we were 18. It’s always a nice night in January as well.”

The 29-year-old then carried his tremendous league form into the championship, as Waterford welcomed All-Ireland champions Clare to Walsh Park in their Munster opener.

On what was his 100th appearance in the white and blue of Waterford, Bennett produced an imperious individual display – scoring 2-8 as the home side prevailed on a 2-23 to 0-21 scoreline. It was the first time that Waterford had beaten the reigning All-Ireland champions in the championship since June 30, 2002. 2-4 of Bennett’s tally came from play, including two crucial second half goals.

Reflecting on his 100th senior appearance for his county, the Ballysaggart forward said: “It’s something I’ll probably look back on in a few years and say it was great but I’m more delighted with the two points. I’d have sat out on the bench if we won the two points. In fairness to the management, I wouldn’t have had a chance to play this year only for them. They trusted me that I could still play.”

Waterford manager Peter Queally added: “There’s just so much in Stephen. There’s no end to his work rate and his energy and what he can contribute. He was superb.”

Stephen Bennett went on to score 4-33 in the Munster Senior Hurling Championship. He is now Waterford’s highest ever scorer in championship, surpassing the record previously held by Paul Flynn.

Each month, an outstanding sports star will be crowned the winner of the monthly WLR Granville Hotel Waterford Sports Awards.

The 12 monthly recipients will then gather for a black-tie Gala Banquet at the Granville Hotel in January 2026, as the overall WLR Granville Hotel Waterford Sports Star of the Year and next entrant to the Waterford Sporting Hall of Fame will be revealed.

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