The Footballer of the Year made headlines this month after signing a deal with McKeever Sports to front his own clothing range — the first agreement of its kind involving a current GAA player
Former Kilkenny ace Walter Walsh has backed the new era of GAA player endorsements — insisting stars like David Clifford have every right to cash in on their profile.
Clifford, the biggest name in Gaelic football, made headlines this month after signing a deal with McKeever Sports to front his own clothing range — the first agreement of its kind involving a current GAA player.
While the sport’s amateur status remains untouched, the move has reignited old fears among GAA traditionalists, some of whom believe commercial deals could warp the ethos of the Games.
Walsh, who spent a decade in the black and amber, thinks those fears belong in the past.
“If a player is willing to work for it, I’m all for it,” he said.
“Lads put enough into the game. Look at what David Clifford gives to football. He’s already one of the best to ever play it. He deserves everything he gets — and more.”
The sight of Clifford branching into a personal brand has stunned some, delighted many — and made Walsh nod in approval.
“It’s a unique thing in the GAA, but why shouldn’t he do it?” Walsh asked.
“If you have a huge profile — like David Clifford or TJ Reid — then of course you should maximise it. McKeever Sports approached him and I can’t see a single reason not to say yes.”
Walsh says Clifford brings in crowds, inspires kids and elevates the entire sport.
“Think of the revenue he brings to the GAA. I want to watch Kerry because I want to watch David Clifford — and I’m not the only one,” he said.
“Young players all over Ireland look up to him. He’s a hero to them. And he’s such a good role model — the way he speaks, how genuine he seems, how modest he is. He should be put up on a pedestal.”
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