There was due recognition for the Westmeath hurlers’ successful exploits in the Joe McDonagh this summer season when five players were named on the ‘Team of the Year’ which was revealed on Monday afternoon.
Lake County hurlers account for seven positions in the selected team - Darragh Egerton, Aonghus Clarke, Tommy Doyle, Robbie Greville, Davy Glennon, Killian Doyle and Niall Mitchell being the chosen personnel from a panel who worked tirelessly over the duration of the campaign to ensure the county achieved its maiden Joe McDonagh Cup success.
There was an added bonus for centre back Tommy Doyle whose consistent performances during the competition were rewarded with the ‘Player of the Year’ accolade.
As a reward for their Joe McDonagh success, Westmeath now return to the Leinster senior hurling championship where new manager, Joe Fortune, will commence his championship voyage with an opening round robin fixture against Kilkenny, a tie to be played on the weekend of April 16.
A date with Galway awaits in round two, with remaining fixtures against Dublin, Wexford and Laois certain to raise the playing levels of the Westmeath players as they eagerly seek to make a positive impact in the provincial series.
Meanwhile, Westmeath senior footballers will commence their Leinster championship campaign with a quarter final contest against neighbours Longford, the first provincial meeting between the two counties since 2008 when the Lake County enjoyed victory on that occasion.
The game is due to throw in the weekend of April 30 with the winning county advancing to a final four berth for which there will be an open draw.
