Dublin star James McCarthy joined a select group of players by landing his eighth All-Ireland medal in the 2-14 to 0-15 win over Mayo at Croke Park this evening.
But personal achievements weren't the first thing on the 30-year-old's mind as he celebrated his side's sixth All-Ireland title in a row.
McCarthy paid tribute to a number of people at the end of a trying year for all, but singled out his Ballymun Kickhams team-mates the Small brothers - Paddy and John - for praise.
The Dublin duo's father Declan was a stalwart of Ballymun GAA and sadly passed away this time last year.
"It's such a challenging year for people and just to get out and play has been brilliant," McCarthy told RTE.
"We'll reflect over Christmas and just think about it. It was a special year, especially earlier on in the year with the club as well and to the two Small brothers, I'm very close to them, their ad passed away this time last year so this is extra special for them."
Today's result means that Dublin captain Stephen Cluxton, McCarthy, Mick Fitzsimons, Philly McMahon, Michael Darragh Macauley, Kevin McManamon and Cian O’Sullivan join Kerry's Mikey Sheehy, Paidi O Se, Ger Power, and Denis ‘Ogie’ Moran on a record eight All-Ireland medals.
McCarthy reflected: "It's incredible and I'm delighted to join such company, I suppose.
"Just the year that's in it, such a tough year...a long year and I suppose everyone is at home watching, so it's great to be able to play and put on a performance for people at home, yeah I'm delighted."
