The tale of David Clifford goes well beyond championship medals and stadium applause. The Kerry forward, who is hailed as one of the most talented players in Gaelic football, has a very grounded life that is supported by his son, Ógie, and his longtime girlfriend, Shauna O’Connor. When combined, they embody a fusion of youthful charm, enduring partnership, and family devotion that is especially motivating in the fast-paced environment of Irish sport.
The relationship between Clifford and O’Connor started when they were teenagers and developed organically over time. Their early photos show two people who are based on quiet loyalty and shared laughter. They are relaxed, honest, and remarkably warm. They had already established something incredibly solid before Clifford became well-known, a partnership motivated by true love rather than celebrity. Their story, shaped by mutual respect and shared milestones, is particularly refreshing in an age of fleeting celebrity relationships.
In 2017, the couple made their relationship public by sharing a happy photo that fans still remember with fondness. Since then, their appearances together have been a reflection of their intense respect for one another. Their presence at post-match events and award ceremonies radiates sincerity and glamour. It is this combination—his confidence on the field, her poise off it—that makes them remarkably appealing to Irish fans who admire authenticity over spectacle.
Personal and Professional Information
| Name | David Clifford |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 22, 1999 |
| Age | 26 years |
| Nationality | Irish |
| Birthplace | Fossa, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Height | 1.87 meters (6 feet 2 inches) |
| Occupation | Gaelic Footballer |
| Club | Fossa GAA / East Kerry |
| County Team | Kerry |
| Position | Forward |
| Partner | Shauna O’Connor |
| Children | One son, Ógie (born 2021) |
| Reference | Wikipedia – David Clifford |
When they welcomed their son, Ógie, in 2021, their love story took a lovely turn. Clifford went through a period of bittersweet transition when he was born, shortly after Kerry’s loss in the semi-final. His thoughts on fatherhood, however, demonstrated a maturity and optimism that struck a chord with many. He frequently says that his son’s laughter helps him see things clearly, stating, “Ógie just wants to play; he doesn’t care whether I win or lose.” That sentiment, exceptionally clear and heartfelt, perfectly captures how family has redefined his priorities.
Clifford has benefited greatly from Shauna’s influence. Even though she keeps to herself, her poise and serene demeanor are powerful. She has stood by him during his career’s highs and lows, always putting his dignity before fame. She shines alongside him at occasions like the GAA All-Star Awards, not as a celebrity but as a representation of equilibrium—steady, graceful, and grounded. Their partnership feels notably genuine, and perhaps that’s why it continues to fascinate Irish audiences.
Clifford uses a gentle yet deliberate tone when discussing fatherhood. He highlights how his perspective on success and sports has changed dramatically as a result of becoming a parent. He once said, “Football used to feel like everything, but family puts it all in perspective.” Beyond his sporting achievements, he is a particularly relatable figure because of these reflections, which highlight his emotional intelligence. He approaches both family and football with the same focus—calm, driven, and quietly passionate.
There have been difficulties in the couple’s life together. The passing of Clifford’s mother, Ellen, in 2023 was a moment of deep sorrow. Ellen, who was frequently spotted enthusiastically cheering from the sidelines, was well-known for her unwavering support of her sons, David and Paudie. After her loss, Clifford spoke movingly about her unconditional love, recalling how she always believed in them, even during tough times. Shauna’s constant company during that time was not only consoling, but also incredibly sustaining.
The Clifford-O’Connor relationship has emerged as a symbol of poise under duress in the larger context of Irish sport. Whether they are photographed at games or on informal outings, their family moments capture something very relatable: a shared joy that transcends public recognition. In 2025, Clifford’s fifth All-Star Award win wasn’t just his victory. It was a shared celebration for a family that had supported every training session, every comeback, every silent sacrifice.
The simplicity of their public appearances is especially admired. They exude warmth and respect whether they are pictured holding hands at black-tie affairs or laughing together on the sidelines. Their chemistry seems natural, the sort that attracts attention without asking for it. Clifford’s assured stance next to Shauna reflects his on-field personality: calm, focused, and genuinely humble.
Their story is especially inspirational because it reflects contemporary Irish values: achievement paired with modesty, ambition balanced with affection. David and Shauna, like other well-known Irish couples like Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll or Conor Murray and Joanna Cooper, represent the development of modern relationships: separate but incredibly connected, private yet incredibly transparent.
Their relationship has also been shaped by travel. Prior to beginning a family, the couple traveled to places like Thailand, where they had carefree adventures and created memories that would serve as the foundation of their home life. Their curiosity and sense of balance—knowing when to seek adventure and when to value quiet—are evident in those travels.
Education, too, is a shared passion. Clifford says that receiving his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Limerick in 2022 is one of his proudest life accomplishments. Soon after, Shauna, who is just as motivated, celebrated her own graduation. More than just achievements, their academic achievements reflect a common belief in lifelong learning, which reflects their steady approach to life and family.
Fans have already fallen in love with their son, Ógie. His happy demeanor, which is frequently observed on the field following significant victories, gives Clifford’s public persona a new depth. Images of the father and son team raising trophies together have gained notoriety. They stand for continuity—the generational transfer of pride, love, and values. Fans respond to Clifford’s frequent joke that his son already has a better left foot than him in a lighthearted but sincere way.
Clifford, a three-time Footballer of the Year, showed up at the 2025 All-Star Awards with Shauna at his side. When combined, they stood for more than just achievement; they were the epitome of poise and quiet assurance. Their collaboration has evolved into a nuanced yet impactful declaration of what contemporary athletes can be: focused professionals who maintain a deep human connection.