Martin Farrelly (Louth) and Mark Foley (Limerick) have been honoured with the OPEL Player of the Month award for April in Football and Hurling respectively. The announcement was made today (Tuesday, 30th May) at the Fitzwilliam Hotel in St. Stephens Green, Dublin. This is the Inaugural Award and launches Opel's sponsorship of the Monthly Gaelic Player's Awards in conjunction with the Gaelic Players Association for the rest of the season. Commenting on Martin Farrelly's Award, John O Mahony Chair of the Opel players award judging panel described Farrelly's contribution to Louth's victory  in the Division Two final against Donegal as the culmination of a magnificent spring campaign from Eamonn McEneaney's men.  Martin  was at the heart of the success. An influential midfielder with a big engine, the Wee County's team captain was prominent in both games against Donegal - hitting a goal and two points in the drawn match and showing tremendous leadership qualities when they were needed in the replay." Similarly, hurling judging panel chair Donal O Grady outlined the reasons behind Mark Foley's Award; Limerick's unbeaten league run might have come a cropper against Kilkenny, but it was through no fault of Mark Foley's outstanding corner-back play. His experience was vital in their spirited run to the Division One final. A lion-hearted defender with a great ability to read of the game, he was rock solid in the quarter-final victory over Waterford and the battling semi-final defeat of Clare. Despite picking up an injury, he gave his all in the final against the Cats." Dave Sheeran Managing Director Opel Ireland said Opel is delighted to congratulate Martin  and Mark  as the first two recipients of an Opel Player of the Month Award. Our support of the Awards is all about celebrating the efforts of players who give so much of their time to represent their county and who bring pleasure and pride to so many in doing so. We look forward to celebrating many more similar achievements in the coming months Chief Executive of the GPA Dessie Farrell re-iterated the sentiments of the day by saying These awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals throughout the season and it is great to have such a prestigious organisation as Opel sponsoring the Awards. Tweet

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