Donegal manager Jim McGuinness has described the hurt his side are experiencing after yesterday's All-Ireland final defeat to Kerry as a feeling they will use to "make themselves stronger going forward".
Thousands of supporters packed the Pier Carpark in Donegal Town and braved torrential rainfall this evening to welcome home their heroes.
Taking to the stage in front of his players, McGuinness said he wanted to recognise the efforts of the panel and his management team.
He said: "There's a lot of hurt behind me. There's a lot of pain behind me. There's is no doubt about it that these fellas wanted to be standing up here today, and they wanted to have the Sam Maguire, and that's not here. There's nobody more disappointed than this group of players.
"I really hope that this could be a moment that they can latch on to that will make them stronger, more resilient, and bring them to a point where they are in a better position than they were yesterday afternoon in terms of going into a big game and taking on a big team."
The Donegal manager thanked his players for their "efforts, commitment and sacrifice" over the past 24 months since he began his second spell in the job.
He also said that the future of Donegal football is "looking bright".
"We're very disappointed more than anything for you people, particularly all these young children across the front here that are the future of Donegal football on the male and the female sides.
"But there will be brighter days, the rain will stop and the sun will shine, and I know for a fact that Donegal will be back here someday with the Sam Maguire Cup," he said, addressing the crowd.
He added: "I hope in my heart of hearts, that day is not too long away, and I hope that everybody on this stage will be part of that and enjoy that moment.
"We have had a fantastic journey over the last two years, back-to-back Ulster Champions and they were really special to us when we got into Pettigo and Donegal Town.
"And as I say, please God, we will be back here again to celebrate a big, big night together."
Meanwhile, Donegal captain Patrick McBrearty thanked the supporters who turned out in their droves to welcome the team home despite the inclement weather.
He said: "There was a massive crowd in Pettigo and obviously, there is a massive crowd here and this has given us a big, big boost so thanks very much.
"On behalf of myself, from the player point-of-view, I want to thank the county board. I want to thank Jim and the backroom team for everything they have done. Everything we have demanded off them as players, we have got it. There was no stone left unturned.
He also praised the efforts of his fellow players.
"I just want to thank the lads behind me. They are an incredible group. They deserved an All-Ireland. To be honest, some of us are lucky to have one, but I have no doubt that there is a lot of lads on the stage here that will end up with an All-Ireland.
"They need to get back on the horse now. They are a great group. They are role models. If you want to be like someone, be like these lads," McBrearty added, which was met with a massive cheer.
The Chairperson of the Donegal County Board, Mary Coughlan also addressed the crowd and thanked McGuinness, his players and backroom team for the year they have given the county.
She also thanked the work of her fellow county board members throughout the year.
Those who braved the elements were also treated to an evening of entertainment by a number of local acts, including Darren Booth and folk group Onóir, while Daniel O'Donnell performed his song 'Home to Donegal'.
