Joe Hennessey

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Joe Hennessey (born 1956) is a former Irish sportsperson who played hurling with Kilkenny in the 1970s and 1980s.

Joe Hennessey is regarded as one of the greatest servants of Kilkenny hurling over the years. Noted for his skill and versatility, the Kilkenny-city native could play in almost any position on the field for both his club and county. Hennessey tasted hurling success at an early age with Kilkenny. In 1973 he was part of the team that claimed the All-Ireland Minor title. This was followed with two All-Ireland Under-21 titles with "the Cats" in 1975 and 1977. He soon graduated onto the county senior team where he won three All-Ireland medals in 1979, 1982 and 1983, as well as four National Hurling League medals in 1976, 1982, 1983 and 1986. On top of all this he collected a host of Leinster Championship honours. With his club James Stephens Hennessey won two All-Ireland Club medals in 1976 and 1982. Hennessey was honoured with 5 All Star Awards in three different positions, right half-back in 1978, midfield in 1979, right half-back in 1983 and 1984 and as right corner-back in 1987.