Galway’s first All-Ireland Hurling Final win in 29 years was given a sad emotional dimension by the passing of Tony Keady last month.
Keady, who won the All-Ireland with Galway back in the 80s, was fondly remembered throughout the afternoon by commentators Marty Morrissey and Michael Duignan, as well as Galway captain David Burke in his post-match speech.
As Burke spoke, Joe Canning proved himself a class act on and off the pitch by standing with the wife and children of Tony Keady. Cameras showed that Canning was stood with Keady’s family when Burke lifted the Liam MacCarthy.
The gesture didn’t go unnoticed, with many on social media noting the Galway talisman’s comforting gesture.
Captain's speech doing justice to Galway's achievement. Joe Canning something else. Thoughts with Keady family. pic.twitter.com/ER2mvPBYru
— Barry McElduff MP (@BarryMcElduff) September 3, 2017
Joe Canning standing beside the Keady family on the pitch.
— Kieran Cunningham (@KCsixtyseven) September 3, 2017
Galway seniors & minors on a lap of honour. Nice touch by Joe Canning standing with Tony Keady's daughter & wife during cup presentation. pic.twitter.com/Cyspyb0tYN
— Gordon Manning (@Gordon_Manning) September 3, 2017
Galway men are fond of a great speech ? you just got to love joe canning down with the keady family #legend
— Declan Reidy (@ReidyDeclan) September 3, 2017
Great speech by David Burke and he was immense today. Classy move by Joe Canning to stand beside the Keady family as the cup was lifted.
— Kevin O'Brien (@Kevobrien7) September 3, 2017
Not only that, but the man who scored nine points for Galway today was filmed after the final whistle posing with two delighted young fans, holding the trophy — before he even got into the Galway dressing room. What a hero.
Joe Canning still hasn't had a chance to visit the Galway dressing room yet, but he took time to make two young fans' day at Croke Park. pic.twitter.com/DK4eji5Ni6
— RTÉ GAA (@RTEgaa) September 3, 2017