Named among the 2018 PwC All-Star XV, David Clifford has seamlessly concluded his astonishing transition from minor to senior Gaelic football.
For his club Fossa, however, it is an accolade that has particular importance.
After demonstrating his astonishing skill for all to see in the 2017 All-Ireland minor football final, much excitement surrounded the integration of Clifford into the senior Kerry set-up.
Although the county had a disappointing year by their own high standards, the 19-year-old Clifford shone out nevertheless.
Duly picked in a full-forward line alongside Monaghan's Conor McManus and Galway's Ian Burke, Clifford will be amongst the favourites to win this year's Young Footballer of the Year.
It is all very new for Clifford's local club, Fossa.
COMHGHAIRDEAS le David Clifford ó @Kerry_Official & @FossaGaa on winning his first @PwCIreland All Star Award. All in Fossa are very proud of you. @KillarneyToday @radiokerrysport @radiokerrynews #GAA #theninesquaremiles
— FossaGaa (@FossaGaa) November 1, 2018
Two years shy of celebrating the club's 50th anniversary, David Clifford is the first Fossa man to receive an All-Star award.
Speaking to Radio Kerry of the significance such an event had for Fossa, Gene Moriarty, one of the club's founding members, couldn't have been happier.
"We're celebrating our 50th anniversary in 2020, so, it's a momentous day to have our first All-Star," Moriarty noted of Clifford's achievement.
Acknowledging their relatively small size, to have a talent of Clifford's standing is something of a first.
"To get it as a teenager, in his first year out of minor, it's a great, great honour.
"You always hope that a good player will come along, you see other clubs and they've produced stars and All-Ireland medal winners, but David is some talent.
"People wondered if he'd make it at senior level, and he proved any doubters wrong. It's a great day for him, and for his family."
