Louth GAA Star Craig Lennon Honored as County’s First All-Star in 13 Years
Ardee News and Sport – Louth GAA fans are celebrating a historic achievement as Craig Lennon of St Mochta’s claims an All-Star award, ending a 13-year wait for the county. Lennon’s outstanding performance this season has made him the first Louth player to secure an All-Star since Paddy Keenan in 2010, earning widespread admiration for what fans call his “staggering development.”
The announcement of the 2024 All-Star team, released Wednesday, marked several milestones. Notably, for the first time since 2003, no Dublin or Kerry players made the cut, highlighting the diversity of talent recognized this year. All-Ireland champions Armagh led with six players, and Galway followed with five, with Lennon’s inclusion as one of the season’s standout stories.
Lennon’s rise to All-Star status has captivated fans and GAA analysts alike. Transitioning from corner-forward to an assertive wing-back, Lennon delivered a career-best performance this year, scoring an impressive 4-7, including a goal during Louth’s Leinster final against Dublin. His efforts helped Louth secure a spot in the Leinster SFC final and advance to the All-Ireland Quarter Finals, achievements that helped solidify his place among GAA greats.
Local journalist Caoimhin Reilly summed up the excitement, posting: “Craig Lennon, Louth’s second-ever All-Star. Incredible achievement by the St Mochta’s clubman who joins Paddy Keenan in an exclusive pantheon of Wee County greats. His development in the last three seasons has been staggering.” Reilly also added context to the historic nature of Lennon’s win: “Craig Lennon was a two-year-old the last time an All-Star team didn’t include a Dublin or Kerry player. The year was 2003.”
Louth GAA took to social media to congratulate their star, saying, “Craig had a wonderful season helping Louth retain Division 2 status, make a Leinster Final and go on a run to the All-Ireland Quarter Final. Congratulations, Craig, very well deserved.” St Mochta’s, Lennon’s hometown club, echoed the pride, sharing: “Massive news this morning…our very own Craig Lennon has won the county’s second-ever All-Star award. Huge congratulations Craig on a wonderful achievement.”
Eamonn O’Neill, another fan, added his voice to the applause, tweeting, “Unbelievably brilliant… delighted for Craig and delighted for our club.”
Craig Lennon’s inclusion in the All-Star lineup is a triumph not just for the player but for Louth as a whole, reigniting pride and inspiration within the county’s GAA community.