The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Kerry GAA launch Galvin designed ‘inclusive’ jersey
page 39
THE new Kerry GAA home jersey, inspired by the iconic 1985 Kerry jersey, is inclusive, rich in storytelling, and strong in identity, according to Paul Galvin, who worked in conjunction with O’Neills sportswear on the new design.
The jersey was launched in conjunction with team sponsors Kerry Group at the Kerry GAA Store in the Killarney Outlet Centre last Friday.
County Committee chairman, Tim Murphy, Frank Hayes, Kerry Group, and Galvin, were in attendance along with some Kerry senior footballers and hurlers.
“The new design is inclusive, rich in storytelling and strong in identity,” Galvin said. “Inspired by the iconic 1985 Kerry jersey, the deep green and gold base with white trims was essential to re-connecting with Kerry’s identity while also helping to implement part of the County Board’s vision for the future in addressing the issue of number visibility for supporters.
“The rich colour base and re-positioning of the number upwards provides greater definition and visibility of the numbers on the back. The slightly longer sleeves offer points of difference and style.
“We hope that past players will recognise the new jersey as a symbol of respect, that current players will wear it as a symbol of pride and identity and that future players will want to wear it.”
Tim Murphy said: “We are, I believe, about to enter another very exciting era for Gaelic football in Kerry. As part of our overall vision for the future we believe the Kerry jersey to be an integral part of our proud football history and tradition which inherently reflects who we are as a people and what we stand for.
“I invited one of our former greats, Paul Galvin, to work with O’Neill’s in designing an authentic jersey reflective of this tradition while also addressing the issue of number visibility. I am happy that this has been achieved.
Kerry Group’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Frank Hayes, said: “The success and history of Kerry is inextricably linked to the county’s proud tradition and success in Gaelic games. Kerry GAA is central to the lifeblood of communities throughout Kerry and to Kerry people all over the world.
“We are pleased to partner in the launch of the new Kerry jersey, which will hopefully lead to the continued realisation of the county’s ambitions and proud record of success.”
The jersey will be on sale exclusively in the Kerry GAA Store until November 7 and it is also available on line through the Kerry GAA website.