O’Donnell describes Hurler of the Year nomination as ‘surreal’

Clare forward Shane O’Donnell has stated that “it’s incredible” to be included on the shortlist for the Hurler of the Year award. In July, O’Donnell contributed to the Banner County’s exhilarating All-Ireland triumph, which was secured by a one-point margin against Cork in the Croke Park final. The 30-year-old player is a contender for the prestigious individual award, competing against Limerick defender Kyle Hayes and Cork midfielder Darragh Fitzgibbon. Speaking on The GAA Social podcast, O’Donnell remarked, “It’s incredible to be in the conversation.” He continued, “It’s a surprise – I’ve always felt that I had the potential. However, potential is something you can feel but it doesn’t make it a reality and it may never materialise in the way that it did.” He concluded by saying, “I’ve had a good year but it’s kind of surreal. I’m proud of it and delighted to be in the situation I’m in.” This marked O’Donnell’s second triumph with the Liam McCarthy Cup, having previously been a key player in the 2013 title victory. That earlier success also occurred against Cork in a replay, where O’Donnell scored three goals as Clare secured a 5-16 to 3-16 win over the Rebels. He waited an additional 11 years to earn another All-Ireland medal, contributing two points in this summer’s championship final. Reflecting on his journey, O’Donnell stated, “Given where I was growing up, I was never in the front of the pack when I was playing when I was younger.” He added, “To be now actually reaching being named player of the year, it seemed like something I thought was possible but definitely not probable.”