Cork hurling captain Robert Downey praised for selfless act amid All-Ireland heartbreak and WhatsApp rumour storm
But the manner of this year's second-half shocking collapse against Tipperary has only added to the deep pain for their
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Robert Downey of Cork showed up at a kid's hurling camp to help out after a heartbreaking loss in last Sunday's All-Ireland final
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A post was shared of the Cork skipper on social media at the camp earlier this week
Credit: INSTA @tomken81
The Rebel county boards also
During the week, speculation swirled on WhatsApp, suggesting a significant dressing-room bust-up at half-time.
Amid the noise and rumours, Rebels captain Robert Downey has earned praise for a classy gesture during what must be a difficult week.
The skipper turned up to help coach at a local kids' Cúl Camp.
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A photo was posted to Instagram by former Cork star Tom Kenny from the Grenagh GAA Cúl Camp.
The snap showed Downey chatting and coaching the next generation of hurlers - despite the heartbreak of the previous weekend.
A caption on the
"Thanks to Rob Downey for calling after a tough sporting week for him. Well done boys and girls. Thanks to all the coaches, assistants and volunteers."
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One particularly touching image shows Downey in deep conversation with a group of children as they don hurleys in their hands.
The post was later shared by O'Connor Hurleys – a company co-owned by two-time All-Ireland winner Ben O'Connor – who used the moment to condemn the unfounded dressing-room claims circulating online.
Liam Cahill's BBC interview gatecrashed by Tipperary GAA stars after All-Ireland final
A further post stated: "To anybody ignorant or stupid enough that helped spread a rumour this week, what have you done to promote the game this week?"
"This is what Rob Downey did this week after the heartache of losing an All-Ireland final.
"Shame on anyone that promoted those horrible stories about our young men this week. You're not supporters, nor are you good opponent. You're lower than low.'
It's not clear who runs the O'Connor Hurleys social media page, but the message pulled no punches.
Regardless, Downey's decision to attend the camp was a powerful and selfless gesture that hasn't gone unnoticed in many quarters after such a challenging week for the Cork skipper.
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