In the Spring of 2000, Limerick beat Cork at Pairc Ui Chaoimh, and then Waterford at Dungarvan to win the Munster Under 21 Football Championship, captained by John Galvin. Kearns then led them to the All Ireland Final after defeating Westmeath in the All Ireland Semi Final at Portlaoise.
Limerick emerged victorious in the Spring of 2000, first defeating Cork at Pairc Ui Chaoimh and then Waterford in Dungarvan to secure the Munster Under 21 Football Championship under the leadership of John Galvin. Kearns's team then advanced to the All Ireland Final after outperforming Westmeath in Portlaoise.