While all eyes in Killarney are on Dr Crokes’ upcoming All-Ireland Club Senior Football Semi-Final against Tyrone’s Errigal Ciaran, there’s another intriguing connection to the other semi-final.

Con O’Meara, son of the late Padraig O’Meara, is the joint manager of Coolera Strandhill, the Connacht champions who will face Dublin powerhouse Cuala in the other semi-final. The O’Meara family has a long and storied association with Killarney, particularly with Legion and their eponymous bar on High Street.
The late Padraig O’Meara, Con’s father moved to Sligo and raised a family there, with Con going on to represent Sligo at senior level. Now, as a manager, Con has led Coolera Strandhill to a historic All-Ireland semi-final.
Adding to the family’s sporting achievements, Con’s brother Shane is the head coach of the Sligo All-Stars, who will face UCC Blue Demons in the All-Ireland National Cup Basketball semi-final on January 11.
With both brothers involved in high-stakes matches, there’s a strong Kerry connection to the All-Ireland club scene this January. As Dr Crokes prepare for their own semi-final, it’s exciting to see another Kerry family making a significant impact on the national stage.