Plastic Paddy Hurling

Hurling News and Information - from an American Perspective

Wexford

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Wexford

Overview: Despite its medieval origins, Wexford hurling has been on the decline in recent years. Their last All-Ireland Championship was in 1996, and while they won the Leinster Championship in 2004, they have struggled to make a consistent impact in the All-Ireland Championship. However it should be noted that Wexford Cream Ale, while having no connection to the county that shares its name, is a delicious and refreshing beer.

Nickname: The Model County; The Yellowbellies

The nickname “The Yellowbellies” comes from the late 18th century when a team from Wexford travelled to play the Cornish champions. Since they had no jerseys, the Wexford players tied a strip of yellow cloth around their chests so they could identify each other. They won the game, and as they left the field King William III was heard to remark "Well done the yellow bellies."

American Comparison: Black 47 lead singer and Wexford “celebrity fan” Larry Kirwan refers to Wexford as “The New York Mets of Hurling.” This is not necessarily a good thing.

Colors/Jerseys: Purple and gold

Rivals: Wexford has a slight rivalry with Tipperary.

Sponsor: Wexford Cheddar

Notable Players: Damien Fitzhenry. Widely regarded as Wexford’s greatest goalkeeper, Fitzherny has been with the senior inter-county hurling team since 1993. During his time with this senior team, Fitzhenry has been named All-Star twice and the team has won three Leinster titles and one All-Ireland Championship.

Stadium: Wexford Park, Wexford

Frequency of televised matches: Rarely - what would you expect from a team called “The Yellowbellies”?

Relevant websites: wexford.gaa.ie

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