Alan Cadogan (Cork)
Cadogan was one of three youngsters to slot into Jimmy Barry Murphy’s side this year as they won the Munster SHC title for the first time since 2006. The younger brother of established senior star Eoin lit up the early stages of the championship with some excellent displays.
He proved a real addition to Cork’s attack this year with a few live wire displays and will hope to built on that in 2015.
Cathal Barrett (Tipperary)
Virtually unheard of outside Tipperary a year ago, Cathal Barrett’s rise to the national consciousness has been a dramatic one. The young corner-back only made his senior debut in February, but has since developed into one of the best man-markers in the game.
Barrett became a key part of Tipperary’s full-back line on their run to the final and gave an exceptional performance in the drawn game in particular.
Conor McDonald (Wexford)
Wexford hurling saw a revival this summer, with Liam Dunne rewarded with his decision to inject his side with a number of talented U21s. Conor McDonald hit 5-10 from play in a stunning debut campaign where he flourished under Dunne.
The 18-year-old burst onto the scene with remarkable strength and confidence that defied his years. He also helped Wexford U21s to the All-Ireland final, where they were defeated by Clare.
James Barry (Tipperary)
Barry’s arrival on the scene helped solve a problem position for Tipperary this season. Initially used at No 6, Barry was switched with Paudie Maher to the full-back line and quickly settled into the role, providing a series of commendable performances en route to the final.
John O’Dwyer (Tipperary)
In only his second year on the Tipperary panel, O’Dwyer had a sparkling season in one of the most exciting attacks in the country. The 23-year-old really stepped up and formed a formidable attack, alongside ‘Bonner’ Maher and Callanan. Only Callanan and Colin Fennelly scored more than the Killenaule forward from play this year.
Padraig Walsh (Kilkenny)
Initially displacing his older brother Tommy from the starting XV, Padraig Walsh alternated between roles in midfield before eventually settling in as a wing-back. Walsh was surprisingly dropped for the drawn All-Ireland final, but he gave a fantastic display when he was recalled by Cody for the replay.
Liam Ryan (Wexford)
Another Wexford youngster to enjoy a break-out year was defender Liam Ryan. The Raparees corner-back helped his county to a back-to-back Leinster U21 titles and became a permanent feature in their defence at senior level as they enjoyed a thrilling qualifier run.
