Carlow pride as two GAA stalwarts honoured at Croke Park for outstanding club service

Two proud Carlow GAA stalwarts were honoured at Croke Park recently with their community spirit and decades of dedication recognised on the provincial stage.

Palatine GAA clubman Finn Brophy was named the 2025 Leinster winner of the Beko Club Champion award, an accolade that celebrates local GAA volunteers who go above and beyond for their clubs and communities.

Finn received the award during the Leinster GAA Club finals at Croke Park, attended by his family, including his parents, Julie and Enda, his sister, Eleanor, and extended relatives.

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The Beko Club Champion award highlights the often unheralded work carried out behind the scenes in clubs across the country, recognising individuals whose commitment makes a lasting difference at grassroots level.

As part of the award, Palatine GAA Club will also receive €1,000 worth of GAA equipment courtesy of Beko, providing a further boost to the club.

Also honoured on the night was Carlow’s Seán Swan, who received a special recognition award for his outstanding long-term commitment to Éire Óg.

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Seán, who owns Swan’s Electrical Expert, was presented with a personalised award acknowledging decades of dedication and service to his local club.

Seán was joined at Croke Park by his wife Patricia and daughter Cathy for the presentation, which took place alongside the Leinster GAA Club finals.

Cathaoirleach Comhairle Laighean Derek Kent paid tribute to Seán’s contribution to Éire Óg, describing the recognition as well-deserved and earned through years of commitment.