James O’Connor crowned June winner of Waterford Sports Awards

James O’Connor is the June winner of the Waterford Sports Awards in association with WLR and the Granville Hotel.

The Lismore man guided the Waterford minor hurlers to All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship glory on a famous day in Thurles on June 28th - as Waterford defeated Clare by 1-18 to 0-11 to lift the Irish Press Cup for the fourth time in history. Two weeks prior, the Deise defeated Kilkenny 2-21 to 2-18 in a thriller at Wexford Park to reach the final.

Speaking when accepting the award, O’Connor said: "It was an unbelievable month, an unbelievable year really. I'm delighted to be accepting this but really I'm accepting the award on behalf of the whole Waterford minor hurling team, backroom team and management. It’s a fantastic honour and we’re absolutely delighted.” O’Connor hopes an All-Ireland title can prove a catalyst for further successes at all age groups for Waterford GAA.

“I’ve been hearing all over the place about the summer camps in the last few weeks - all the youngsters are coming along for a chance to meet the minors and to hold the cup and it’s fantastic. They’re meeting their heroes, and we need things like that in Waterford. Kids need someone to look up to and it’s brilliant to have All-Ireland medalists in the county again. It will inspire the next generation.” Each month, an outstanding sports star will be crowned the winner of the monthly WLR Granville Hotel Waterford Sports Awards.

The 12 monthly recipients will then gather for a black-tie Gala Banquet at the Granville Hotel in January 2026, as the overall WLR Granville Hotel Waterford Sports Star of the Year and next entrant to the Waterford Sporting Hall of Fame will be revealed.