Today's All-Ireland hurling final was a big occasion for Cork in more ways than one, with their heroes of the past being acknowledged on the Croke Park pitch prior to the current's side clash against Clare.
The jubilee celebrations are one of the best traditions in the GAA, with the All-Ireland winners from 25 years prior being presented on the pitch before both the hurling and football finals.
The timing of these ceremonies have been criticised in the past, with some feeling that it was poor form to parade the ex-players in front of an almost empty Croke Park. However, a massive Cork contingent made their way into the ground well over an hour before throw-in this afternoon, ensuring that their 1999 All-Ireland winning team received quite a brilliant reception.
The victorious Cork team from 1999 is presented to Croke Park
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Sheedy Had Funny Response To Barry-Murphy Joining Cork Jubilee Team
That Cork side that won the All-Ireland in 1999 featured no shortage of hurling legends, but you could argue that the biggest one of all was stood on the sideline.
Jimmy Barry-Murphy is one of the greatest Irish athletes of all-time, having starred for Cork in both codes as well dabbling in a bit of soccer. He would go on to manage the hurlers to All-Ireland success in 1999.
He was part of the jubilee celebrations this afternoon, a rarity for managers during these ceremonies.
Speaking on RTÉ, that Liam Sheedy fact drew a hilarious response from former Tipperary manager Liam Sheedy when he was informed of it by presenter Joanne Cantwell. He would go on to pay huge praise to that iconic Cork team.
Cantwell: Isn't it lovely as well, I think this is the first year that a manager has come out with the jubilee team. It's so important isn't it?
Sheedy: Yeah it's very nice, it gives me a chance to get out someday Joanne! It's the only way I'll get out I'm afraid!
What a wonderful crop of players. I was at a lot of those matches that these guys played and they were just incredible to watch.
To acknowledge Jimmy Barry Murphy, as a sportsperson growing up he was my hero. He played soccer, he played football, he played hurling, he played everything. He was just a genius.
We are lucky to share a podium here with this guy (Donal Óg Cusack). Really, he exemplifies everything that is good about hurling. He is passionate about the game.
These were a wonderful bunch.
Of course, Liam Sheedy led Tipperary to All-Ireland successes in both 2010 and 2019. Judging by today's comments, he will be hoping he will get a visit to Croke Park in 2035.
Jimmy Barry-Murphy certainly deserved to be part of this occasion with that incredible Cork team this afternoon.
SEE ALSO: Donal Óg Cusack Questions GAA Over Lack Of 'Respect' For Hurling
