Plastic Paddy Hurling

Hurling News and Information - from an American Perspective

Clare

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Clare

Overview: Clare holds the distinction of the being the home of Michael Cusack, the founder of the GAA and for whom Clare’s playing field is named. While Clare first won the All-Ireland Championship in 1914, it took 81 years for it to hold the Liam McCarthy Cup again - winning in 1995 and 1997.

Nickname: The Banner County

The nickname is derived from the banners at demonstrations supporting activist Daniel O'Connell's election campaign in the constituency of Clare in 1828. Seriously – look it up for yourself if you don’t believe it.

American Comparison: Hmmm…none really come to mind, but then again Clare is really a non-descript county when it comes to hurling. Of course they’re always there lurking, but they don’t seem to stand out much. Let’s call them the Philadelphia Eagles of hurling – great tradition, passionate fans and always a possibility to surprise you. I don’t think Clare fans ever booed Santa Claus through.

Colors/Jerseys: Saffron and blue

Rivals: Clare has a slight rivalry with Tipperary.

Sponsor: Pat O'Donnell & Co., Ltd. (Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment supplier)

Notable Players: Frank Lohan. As a member of the 1995 and 1997 Munster and All-Ireland championship squads, Lohan saw success early in his career. He was named an All-Star in 1999 and was captain of the team during Clare's run to the 2007 All-Ireland quarter-final (as his father Gus and brother Brian had been before him). Lohan retired in 2008 as the most capped outfield player in Clare hurling history, having played 58 senior championship matches.

Stadium: Cusack Park, Ennis

Frequency of televised matches: Very rare, unless they make another surprising run for the Munster championship

Relevant websites: www.claregaa.ie

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