John Conlon has made a name for himself in GAA, winning two All-Ireland senior hurling medals without ever grabbing a provincial title. His career is unique, built on his determination and love for the game. Since debuting for Clare in 2009, he played a key role in their 2013 All-Ireland win as a forward. Now, in 2024, he’s transitioned into a strong defender and helped Clare secure the Liam MacCarthy Cup for the fifth time. More Memories for Conlon.
Bouncing Back from Injury
Conlon’s path hasn’t been easy. He faced some tough injuries, including a major cruciate ligament injury in 2020 that put his inter-county future in doubt. Instead of giving up, he pushed himself even harder. His hard work paid off in 2023 when Clare finally beat Limerick in a championship match. It wasn’t the Munster final, but it was a big deal for the team. At 33, Conlon felt in the best shape of his life, and an All-Star award proved that. More Memories for Conlon.
Lohan’s Influence and Team Spirit
After facing three Munster final losses to Limerick and two All-Ireland semi-final defeats to Kilkenny, 2024 was a turnaround year. Under Brian Lohan’s guidance, Clare beat Cork in a thrilling extra-time All-Ireland final. Conlon recalls Lohan as a tough player and appreciates his drive and care for the team. He says Lohan’s approach has given Clare hurling a fresh energy—fast, fearless, and exciting.
The Missing Munster Medal
Despite all the wins, Conlon is still chasing one prize—a Munster Championship medal. Clare hasn’t won a Munster title since 1998 and lost seven finals since then. This year, they start with a home game against Cork, who recently scored heavily against them. Conlon knows the team needs to tighten up their defense. “If we play like we did last time, we’re in trouble,” he says. But he’s ready for the challenge, looking forward to finally showing what they can do in the championship opener.
Why He Keeps Coming Back
As his career moves forward, every game holds more meaning for Conlon. But it’s not just about the medals. It’s all about the moments. Whether it’s the cheers from a packed Cusack Park or the buzz of a Munster final, those experiences keep him passionate about the sport. He recalls the 2023 Munster final against Limerick as one of the best days of his life, even though they lost. It’s the emotional ties, the pride of the community, and those unforgettable times with teammates that bring Conlon back, wanting to make more memories with Clare.
