Killarney


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<p>by Adam Moynihan</p>



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<p><strong>Tommy Walsh has spoken of his positive relationship with Kerry supporters over the course of a memorable intercounty career that ended with his retirement in 2021.</strong></p>



<p>The Tralee native won two All-Irelands and an All-Star during his time in green and gold and he was a popular figure amongst the county’s football fans, often receiving big ovations when introduced off the bench in recent seasons.</p>



<p>Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser at the launch of Guinness 0.0’s ‘Yours for the Taking’ campaign, Walsh said that although Kerry supporters have a reputation for being critical, he always found them very encouraging.</p>



<p>“I wouldn’t say I felt [the support] any more than any of the other lads, but I always got on very well with Kerry fans. I live in Tralee and I travel around the county and I always enjoy my interactions with them. </p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>&#8220;Whether I was coming off the bench or I was starting, I always felt their encouragement and support, and it does make a difference.</p></blockquote>



<p>“When people are wishing you well and you’re seeing the signs and things like that around the place, it always gives you that extra pep in your step.</p>



<p>“Kerry supporters would have a name for being critical, but I suppose that’s because they know their football, and they have high standards from what has happened historically. I meet people walking around the streets and everyone is generally very, very positive. They’re only wishing you well. But there is always going to be expectation there.</p>



<p>“The lads inside [in the Kerry squad] are well aware of that as well. Hopefully they can have a good year, and then the expectation will be even higher next year. That’s just the way it works.”</p>



<p>The Kerins O’Rahillys player believes that the current Kerry team are in a “good place” heading into the All-Ireland series. Should supporters be optimistic?</p>



<p>“Kerry fans are always optimistic, aren’t they?! [The team’s form] creates a buzz around the place and everyone in Kerry knows that it’s All-Ireland champions or nothing. That’s always the way it’s been. If you don’t win it, it’s a bad year. This year will be no different.</p>



<p>“The boys look like they’re in a good place. I’m sure they’re working hard at the moment and hopefully it will be a successful 2022 for them.”</p>



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<p><em>Read the full interview in Friday’s Killarney Advertiser</em></p>



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Tommy Walsh: I always felt the fans’ support

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