Kilkenny defender Claire Phelan believes Brian Cody’s remarkable 24-year reign over the men’s senior hurlers helped inspire a generation of camogie players in the county.

Cody stepped down from his post last month after leading the Cats to 11 All-Ireland SHC titles as well as 18 Leinster senior championships and 10 National League crowns during his time in charge.

Speaking to RTE Sport ahead of Sunday’s All-Ireland senior camogie championship final between Kilkenny and Cork, Phelan spoke of her and her team mates surprise at the time to learn Cody had stepped down.

"We were surprised," said the Lisdowney woman. "Brian Cody made our childhoods for a lot of us, we got to experience September every year and All-Irelands nearly, which is something special.

"It's nearly why Kilkenny hurling and camogie is as good as it is, because young kids were growing up with that All-Ireland every year nearly, which was amazing.

"I know there is a good list of candidates there for it and I have no doubt the best man will be put in the job and hopefully will go on and do as good as Brian Cody did."

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