Graham Canty (Cork) and Henry Shefflin (Kilkenny) were today named as the Opel GPA Players of the Month for August 2009 in football and hurling respectively.

The awards recognise the outstanding contribution both players  made to their county's performances in Cork and Kilkenny respectively in the Championship throughout August.  Graham Canty has successfully captained Cork to the All-Ireland Senior Football final, showing his leadership skills on the pitch during a powerful display against defending champions Tyrone in the semi-final.

Meanwhile, Henry Shefflin gave a man-of- the match display in Kilkenny's semi-final against Waterford leading his team to a five point win, while helping himself to an impressive 1-14 tally. His ability to finish was again evident on Sunday in the All-Ireland Hurling Final against Tipperary where Shefflin's late scores helped secure Kilkenny's fourth successive All-Ireland Senior Hurling title.

Chairman of the Opel/GPA Football Selection Committee, Martin McHugh, wasn't the least bit surprised to see Canty selected by his fellow players: "If ever there was a Cork man on a mission to win an All-Ireland SFC medal, then it has to be Graham Canty," remarked McHugh. "He has been outstanding all summer and has become a real general on the pitch. This was particularly apparent in the two games in Croke Park against Donegal and Tyrone, where he led by example and encouraged those around him to take the game to the opposition. A real powerful footballer who's going to be a major force in the All-Ireland Final against Kerry."

Chairman of the Hurling Selection Committee Donal O'Grady said "Accolades may now be common place for Henry Shefflin whose displays are always of the highest standard. His team-mates and fellow hurlers are well aware of his extraordinary talent.  His overall display of work-rate, setting up scores  and a personal tally of  1-6 from play as well as eight points from frees in the All-Ireland semi-final against Waterford makes him the worthy recipient of the August award."

Dessie Farrell, Gaelic Players Association Chief Executive, added: "Congratulations to both Graham and Henry for being honoured for August. Both men are pivotal figures for their respective counties and were hugely instrumental in securing places in the All-Ireland Finals. As always, both players will be the first to point to the contribution of their team-mates and the importance of a collective effort. Thanks to all the players who cast their votes for the August nominees and thanks to Opel for their continued support of the Gaelic Players Awards."

Aislinn Connolly of Opel Ireland said: "Opel Ireland congratulates Graham and Henry on winning the Opel GPA Player of the Month Awards for August 2009. Both players have had a very successful season and have been invaluable to their county throughout this thrilling championship. Congratulations to Henry on winning his 7th All-Ireland Senior Hurling medal last Sunday, and we look forward to seeing Graham Canty playing Sunday week in what should also be an exciting match."