'The cup was never lost. It was never missing. It was never stolen' - reliving the FBI's hunt for Sam Maguire in New York

In 1981, the prestigious Sam Maguire trophy, awarded to the All-Ireland GAA football champions, was stolen during a game at Gaelic Park in New York. Jimmy Deenihan, a key player for Kerry and captain of the Field Rangers, offered his insights into the surreal experience surrounding the theft. The shocking incident caught the attention of both the FBI and NYPD, highlighting its significance beyond a local event and showcasing the trophy's importance to the community and GAA legacy.

Deenihan recounts, "It was a surreal experience, one that left us in disbelief. The trophy was not just a piece of metal; it symbolized our dreams and aspirations."

Reflecting on the event, Deenihan adds, "The involvement of the FBI and NYPD turned a local matter into a sensational story that captured headlines across Ireland and the US."

Read at Independent