This is what dreams are made of for Shane

SHANE Cunningham of Kilmacud Crokes has been named as the AIB GAA Club Footballer of the Year at a special AIB GAA Club Player Awards ceremony at Croke Park.

Shane led his side to their second consecutive AIB GAA All-Ireland Football Senior Club final this year, and brought the coveted Andy Merrigan cup home to Stillorgan after a pulsating final. Notching two vital points for his club in the final, as well as winning the crucial first half penalty on the day, Cunningham has been on-song for Crokes throughout the season.

The hard-working forward’s leadership on and off the field showed throughout the Leinster and All-Ireland campaigns, while his versatility in the forward line and powerful presence on the ball played a crucial part in his ascent of the Hogan Stand in January.

Commenting on his win, Shane said: “As much as I’m honoured to receive the award, looking at lads around our team like Dara Mullin, Dan O’Brien, Andy McGowan… I think they might have outperformed me. Lads from the Glen as well would have played very well throughout the year, but I am absolutely honoured, it’s a massive achievement.

“Everyone on our team puts in a massive amount of time and effort… especially after last year, lads put holidays on hold, travel plans on hold, maybe even going in with the Dublin team on hold. Thankfully it came to fruition this year to win the All-Ireland and it reaped its rewards.”

Reflecting on the final in January, Shane described what was going on his head as the final whistle approached. “I was trying to run out on the pitch and I cramped my calf, so I kind of had to grab the first person I saw and just collapse to the ground with them I was so tired!