Hanahoe played no part in the 1973 championship but he returned in 1974 and Kevin Heffernan was appointed manager once again. That year Hanahoe claimed his first Leinster title before later going on to beat Galway to claim his first All-Ireland medal. In 1975 Dublin retained their provincial title with Hanahoe playing a key role in the full-forward line. His side, however, were later defeated by an up-and-coming Kerry side. In 1976 Hanahoe was appointed captain of Dublin. Under his leadership Dublin captured another Leinster title before gaining revenge over Kerry for the previous year's defeat. It was Dublin's nineteenth All-Ireland title and it was Hanahoe's second. Hanahoe also became one of only seven men to have been presented the Sam Maguire Cup twice as captain. His performance in the championship earned him his sole All-Star award.