"Through thick and thin" - Kildare captain thanks fans in emotional Tailteann Cup speech

Victorious Kildare captain Kevin Feely thanked the team's loyal supporters for backing him and his players during difficult times after he lifted the Tailteann Cup at Croke Park this afternoon. 

Kildare held off a late rally by Limerick to record a rare victory in GAA HQ by 1-24 to 2-19. 

It was the Lilywhites' Kildare’s first piece of silverware since winning the Division Two final in 2012. 

This season, manager Brian Flanagan has masterminded 12 wins from 15 competitive games as well as promotion to Division Two and entry to the All-Ireland senior football championship in 2026.

Athy man Feely said: "A huge thank you to Kildare County Board, to Brady Ham and all our sponsors and contributors. There was no stone left unturned to help us this year. Hopefully between today and Joe McDonagh Cup, it has been some bit repaid. 

"To the partners and families of everybody involved - a massive thank you for your unwavering support, for putting up with all the hardships that come with supporting us, and allowing us to do what we love. We appreciate it a huge amount. 

"In addition to that, to the people of Kildare who have come to support us through thick and thin, especially during recent times, thank you so much." 

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Beginning his speech, Feely paid a special tribute to the Kildare captains he had played under: 

"I think of the captains in my playing days that have gone before me - Mick O'Grady, David Hyland and Eoin Doyle - inspirational leaders and standard bearers for Kildare for years who deserve to be up here more than anyone. This one's for ye lads. 

"There's a lot of people to thank and to acknowledge for their efforts this year.  

"To Limerick, congratulations on a brilliant year. Achieving promotion and a brilliant Tailteann campaign. Well done on a serious battle today, and with the talent in that team, I've no doubt the future of football is absolutely bright in Limerick. Thank you. 

"To today's referee Liam Devenney and all the match officials, thanks for officiating such a fair match. I know it has not been easy this year with all the new rules, but you did a great job today."