Celebrity Illusionist Keith Barry has offered his valuable 'mind coaching' skills to his native county's senior hurlers, in their bid to end a 51-year wait for the All-Ireland senior crown.

A staunch follower of his county, the magician said he was 'desperate' to erase the painful memories of the 2008 final when Kilkenny demolished them by a wide margin. Munster Champions Waterford will take on Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final on Sunday week.

"Not a single Waterford supporter wants to go through what happened in the 2008 final again," said Barry to the Irish Independent. He believes the countless championship defeats to Kilkenny over the years are a large monkey on the backs of the Waterford panel.

"There's got to be some element of baggage from that All-Ireland loss."

Barry is willing to sit down with every player on the panel individually and help eliminate whatever fear that may exist.

"By talking to each player, by focusing their minds on the challenge of achieving success rather than dwelling on the obstacle provided by one particular set of opponents, I'd effectively neutralise Kilkenny."

Barry will only help if the County Board want him to help.

"That's their call," he added. Tweet

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