A civic reception for Waterford golfer, Seamus Power, was held yesterday afternoon.
It's the second time the Touraneena man has been honoured with the ceremony.
The first was after he represented Ireland at the Rio Olympics in 2016.
This time he was being acknowledged for his PGA Tour win and successful past year.
Speaking to WLR News following the reception, Seamus said the last few years have made a huge difference to his life.
"The last few years have been great for me, (they) kind of changed the trajectory of my career," he said.
The PGA Tour win alone has also changed life for Power.
He has the luxury of knowing that his card is secured for next year, and he's been able to take some time off until Januray.
He said the win has opened up a lot of opportunities for him.
"It gives you flexibility to do things you want to do. I'm going to Abu Dhabi for a couple of weeks in January to play which I might not have been able to do if I didn't get the win," Power told WLR.
Until then, he will be spending time surrounded by familiar faces.
This is the first year Power has returned to the Déise for Christmas since 2016, something he anticipates will be "different, but enjoyable."
When asked when he will be returning to the fairway, Power said he's enjoying the time off.
"I'm not doing much in terms of golf at the moment. It's nice. I'll worry about that when I get back," he said.
Younger years
The family and friends of Power were present at the reception held for him yesterday.
Among them was his former coach, Justin Spratt.
Justin was the Junior Officer of West Waterford Golf Club when Power joined.
"I was very proud of him, even at that stage. He was very dedicated," he said.
In 2000, Justin took over as Power's coach. He said he was very easy to train and always willing to learn.
"Seamus was always great to learn, no matter what you tell him, you'd never have to tell him twice," he said.
Justin's brother Pat started West Waterford Golf Club.
Pat regularly used to tell Justin that "youth is the important thing."
"And he was right," Justin said. He also trained fellow West Waterford Golfer, Gary Hurley.
When asked about Hurley, Power had nothing but praise for him.
"From where he started, to where he would've been 12 months ago, to where he is now is just amazing," he said.
Power discussed how difficult the Q-School Tournament is and complimented how well Hurley did, as well as his work ethic.
While speaking during the civic reception, many of the councillors acknowledged Power's great sportsmanship.
Councillor Thomas Phelan even said he "wins like a winner."
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