Brendan Maher: From Croke Park Hero to Passionate Tipperary Supporter
There are moments in sport that live on not because of precision, but because of pure, unfiltered emotion. For Brendan Maher, one of those moments came not with a swing of a hurley or a lifting of silverware, but halfway down the steps of the Hogan Stand.
In 2016, as Maher finished his All-Ireland victory speech, he forgot the most important line — the one he had marked at the top of his notes, meant to be his sign-off. Instead, in the rush of euphoria, he ended with a roar:
"People of Tipperary, Liam MacCarthy’s back!"
The celebrations drowned out the omission, but Maher remembers. And that forgotten line, oddly enough, has stuck with him more than the rest.
🏆 From Champion to Spectator
Now retired, Maher enters his fourth year away from inter-county hurling, and this year's All-Ireland Final is the first he’ll attend as a supporter rather than a player. Driving through Tipperary, he feels a different kind of anticipation. No more silent buildup, no gearbags, no tactical briefings — just pride and perspective.
Fatherhood, a growing online business with his wife Aoife, and a quieter rhythm of life have added new dimensions to his world. Yet, hurling hasn’t lost its hold on him. It has simply evolved.
“I’m very content. And now I’m very content as a supporter. I’m actually enjoying supporting the new players coming on.”
👶 Legacy and the Next Generation
There’s a deeper layer to Maher’s pride this year. His clubmate Paddy McCormack, a star from the U20 All-Ireland triumph in May, has joined the senior squad for the final. It reminds Maher of his own early days, and of the joy and pressure of rising through the ranks.
“We’re really proud. I’m starting to see how proud you would be of somebody being involved, having been in their shoes.”
It’s the circle of sport — the veteran hands over the torch, but never really lets go of the flame.
🤝 Old Friends, New Roles
Tipperary’s current lineup is still laced with familiar faces from Maher’s playing days. Names like Jason Forde, John McGrath, Michael Breen, and captain Ronan Maher—his brother—remain. But perhaps none have left a deeper mark than Noel McGrath.
A decade after a cancer diagnosis at 24, McGrath continues to lace his boots, now as a leader and emotional heartbeat of the squad. He was always more than a teammate to Maher — he was, and remains, a close friend.
“I would give anything to see him win on Sunday to reward that longevity and persistence he has shown.”
Maher recalls the phone call when he first heard about McGrath’s illness. He remembers the roar in Croke Park when Noel made his comeback. And he sees how McGrath, now a father himself, plays with love and freedom, unburdened by pressure.
🔄 Then and Now
Life has moved on. The routine of finals week has shifted from mental game plans to baby bottles, from team buses to business meetings. Yet, the passion remains.
Maher speaks candidly about his tendency to overthink, how he used to get mentally drained before the final whistle even sounded. Those long walks, quiet moments, and tightly held routines helped him cope. Today, he brings that same focus to family life and entrepreneurship, though hurling still tugs at his heart.
And as for that 2016 Hogan Stand speech mishap?
“I was actually bothered by it for a while after. I just couldn’t believe I was after doing it.”
But time, perspective, and perhaps a bit of good-natured ribbing from manager Michael Ryan, have healed that moment into a fond memory.
🟦⚪ Still Blue and Gold
Brendan Maher may no longer wear the Tipperary jersey on the pitch, but the colors still run through him. Whether in the crowd, at home with his family, or cheering for the next generation of hurling stars, his heart beats blue and gold.
And today, as he watches from the stands, there's no speech to prepare, no notes to forget. Just gratitude, legacy, and the thrill of watching his county chase glory once again.
