KILKENNY’S Tommy Walsh and Paul Galvin of Kerry have been named as the Opel Gaelic Players of the Year for hurling and football respectively.

The announcement was made at the GPA’s Annual Gala and Awards Evening at the CityWest Hotel in Dublin. The pair were also honoured with the Vodafone Player of the Year awards last month.

Walsh and Galvin won the accolades following a vote by the GPA membership after being short-listed for the prize in October.

Due to their outstanding performances throughout the season, both players will receive a brand new Opel Astra worth approximately €25,000.

Commenting on the announcement, Dessie Farrell, Chief Executive of the Gaelic Players’ Association said: “Congratulations to Tommy and Paul who have been acknowledged by their fellow hurlers and footballers as the outstanding players of the 2009 season.

“Both men made massive contributions to their respective county’s efforts this year and though they were up against serious competition during the nomination process, they have been singled out by their peers.