This year’s GAA/PWC All Star Nominations bring nine nominations for Kerry players along with two nominations for Footballer of the Year. As a County, we are deeply proud of all of our Kerry players and extremely grateful for their commitment, passion and determination, as well as the dedication of their management and backroom team, to bring Sam Maguire back to Kerry and for so many fantastic memories throughout the year. We wish to congratulate all those nominated;
Shane Ryan (Nominated for All Star – Goalkeeper)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Rathmore clubman had a fantastic year between the sticks with some remarkable saves and precision kickouts that allowed the team to drive forward at every opportunity. He was nothing short of a fortress in goal giving Kerry the platform to build from the back.
Brian Ó Beaglaoich (Nominated for All Star – Backs)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The An Ghaeltacht clubman excelled in the half-back line and was a driving force in many Kerry attacks, with plenty of fantastic scores to his name as well. His ability to surge forward, link defence to offence, and pop up with points made him a constant threat and a key component of the Kingdom’s fluid play.
Jason Foley (Nominated for All Star – Backs)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Ballydonoghue clubman was the last line of defence and could not be bypassed. Not only was his man-marking excellent this year, his speed as he races for a ball is something to behold and Jason also managed to break multiple kickouts, disrupting opposition possession and turning defence into attack at crucial moments.
Gavin White (Nominated for All Star – Backs)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Dr. Crokes clubman exemplified what it means to captain your county this year as he led the Kerry team to All-Ireland success. The fulcrum between defence and attack, Gavin exploded into action in the first few seconds of the All-Ireland Final and proved instrumental in the victory through his leadership, composure, and never-say-die spirit.
Mike Breen (Nominated for All Star – Backs)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Beaufort clubman had a brilliant season in the Kerry defence, bringing huge energy and tenacity to every game. His ability to break tackles, cover ground quickly, and shut down opposition runners gave Kerry real solidity at the back, while his powerful surges forward often set the tone for attacking moves.
Joe O’ Connor (Nominated for All Star – Midfield) (Nominated for Footballer of the Year)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Austin Stacks clubman was a giant in the middle of the pitch this year for Kerry and showed passion and grit at every opportunity. He dominated midfield battles, broke lines with powerful runs, and delivered when it mattered, notably his goals in Páirc Uí Chaoimh & Croke Park to ensure Kerry victories. Time and again he managed to get a crucial hand in to dispossess opponents, breaking up attacks and turning the tide in Kerry’s favour.
David Clifford (Nominated for All Star – Forwards) (Nominated for Footballer of the Year)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Fossa clubman was—as is often the case—a maestro in the full forward line. His ability to switch between fielding high ball, taking on defenders with speed and skill, and, of course, delivering in point kicking and goal scoring, made David a focal point of so many of the Kerry attacks this year. More remarkable than his individual skill, is his football IQ which allows him to see the game in detail and always be unselfish with the ball.
Paudie Clifford (Nominated for All Star – Forwards)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Fossa clubman is the conductor of the Kerry orchestra, with unparalleled vision and pinpoint accuracy with kick passes and hand passes. Paudie orchestrated much of the attacking play, creating space, picking perfect passes, and combining with teammates to devastating effect across the full forward line.
Seán O’ Shea (Nominated for All Star – Forwards)
(Photo by Maurice Whelan)
The Kenmare Shamrocks clubman gave an exhibition in top-class forward play this year, particularly in the All-Ireland Quarter Final where he lit up the scoreboard and kept defenders under constant pressure. Seánie always gives it his all and his passion is palpable to all who witness it. His accuracy, intelligent movement, and composure in the big games were central to Kerry’s march to another Sam Maguire.
Full article here: https://www.gaa.ie/article/2025-pwc-gaa-gpa-gaelic-football-all-star-nominations-announced
By Emma Sweeney Thu 25th Sep
