'I Love Me County'

Waterford, the Gentle County, can boast a proud sporting tradition that is as long as it is unusual. Ireland's oldest city has witnessed many trends, from blood sports like bull-baiting in Ballybricken to roller hockey at the Olympia Ballroom. But the towns and villages of County Waterford were not to be overshadowed, producing notable sports people such as basketballers and boxers. In 'I Love Me County', learn about everyone from camogie pioneers to World Champions, as this collection of stories records the lives, loves and losses of some of Waterford's forgotten sporting heroes, demonstrating the importance of sport and leisure in the history of the county.

CIAN MANNING is a Waterford historian and author who has a passion for history and sport. He has presented talks on how enthusiasm for sport can invite people into exploring their interests from a history and heritage perspective. He has previously contributed to Pog Mo Goal, The Football Pink, BTLM and History Ireland. His first book for The History Press, Waterford City: A History, was published in 2019.