Galway
Overview: Galway, the land of wistful stories and weeping homesick ballads. On the western edge of Ireland, so far beyond the Pale that even Cromwell never bothered to properly conquer it, Galway is the most geographically isolated county in hurling’s most competitive division. They’re a powerhouse in a province that just can’t keep up. For the first time in 2009 they’ll compete as part of Leinster (Ireland’s eastern province), giving them an opportunity to not only compete with Kilkenny for the prestigious provincial championship, but to secure a better seed in the All-Ireland tournament.
Nickname: The Tribesmen
As noted, Connacht (the province in which Galway is the largest city) is a hinterland, ruled consistently by “barbarian” tribesmen while the rest of the island fell to more “civilized” rule.
American Comparison: The California Angels always seemed like the most analogous team. Out there on the west coast where the competition is lackluster and they’re the only game in town, they get to bide their time while competitors in more cutthroat divisions wear each other out. Maybe that will change in 2009, as the Tribesmen are thrown into the Leinster melee. We’ll reevaluate in August.
Colors/Jerseys: Maroon and White.
Rivals: Traditionally they’ve been the undisputed king of their domain, above petty rivalries. With their entry into Leinster, however, they find themselves playing Rocky to Kilkenny’s Apollo. This is the first threat to Kilkenny domination in years, and Galway’s first chance to prove that they’re more than the proverbial smartest kid in a special ed class. We expect some viciousness when these two meet.
Sponsor: Supermac’s - which any tourist will tell you is Ireland’s most delicious answer to McDonald’s.
Notable Players: It’s impossible to discuss Galway Hurling…scratch that. It’s impossible to discuss hurling at all, without mentioning Joe Canning at some point. As yesterday’s superstars near the end of their playing careers, 22 year old Canning has emerged as the sport’s Michael Jordan. He’s young, dynamic and able to pull off plays that make you say “holy shit.” Kilkenny fans will dismissively imply that he’d be just another player on their roster, but we suspect that’s the fear talking. This kid is the real deal.
Stadium: Pearse Stadium, Galway
Frequency of televised matches: More frequently these days as the "Joe Canning Show" continues to be the hottest ticket in town.
Relevant websites: www.galwaygaa.ie
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