Athenry GAA Teams of the 1960's

1960’s

A Decade of change

The 1960s was characterised by a world economic boom, a rise in population and the emergence of the Civil Rights movements. It was the age of space exploration, in which the first man walked on the moon in 1969. In 1967 the first successful heart transplant was performed in South Africa by Dr. Christian Barnard. President John F. Kennedy visited Ireland in June 1963 before being assassinated in November. Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy were also assassinated in the United States in 1968. The war in Vietnam dominated the decade, and gave rise to anti-war protests in the United States and Europe. The ‘six-day’ Arab-Israeli war, in 1967, saw the defeat of the combined Arab forces, and the occupation by Israel of the West Bank and Gaza. Racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa peaks, Nelson Mandela begins his 27 year prison term on Robin Island. Ireland benefited from the economic boom as policies of protectionism were abandoned and the country was opened up to international trade and industry. RTÉ television was launched on the last day of 1961. The era of the Irish showbands didn’t catch fire and explode across the country until the early 1960’s. Marquee dancing was very popular all over the country during the summer months especially to the Swingtime Aces. The 1960s also saw the end of censorship in Ireland, and the provision of free post-primary education. The Civil Rights movement began in the North of Ireland, and the start of the ‘troubles’ that went on until the 90’s. In 1960 a battalion of of the country’s defence forces went to the Congo. In November nine Irish soldiers were killed in an ambush at Niemba by Baluba tribesmen. The most famous Irish racehorse Arkle became a national legend. His strength was jokingly claimed to come from drinking Guinness twice a day. At one point, the slogan ‘Arkle for President’ was written on a wall in Dublin. The ‘Sportsperson’ of the 20th century Muhammad Ali won the World Boxing Title. Tipperary and Kilkenny dominated hurling winning seven All-Irelands between them in the ‘60. But the ‘west was awake’ with Galway winning three-in-a-row All-Ireland Senior Football Titles in 1964, ’65 and ‘66.

OLD CHURCH STREET TEAM Front Row: (left to right) John Joe Brady, Luke Glynn, Raymond Glynn, Joe Curran. Middle Row: (left to right) Tony Curran, Alfie McNamara, Seamus Lynch, Tom Howley, Joe Whyte, Liam Kenny. Back Row: (left to right) Charles Taylor, Martin Maloney, Michael Joe Clarke and Brian Pollard. Background: Noel Flanner y .

QUOTES FROM 1960’s: JOHN F KENNEDY “ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country”. “We need men who can dream of things that never were, and ask why not”. NELSON MANDELA: “I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society .... It is an ideal which I hope to live for. But if needs be it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die”. NEIL ARMSTRONG: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” MUHAMMAD ALI: “Don’t count the days; make the days count”. “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life” .

ATHENRY AS IT WAS

Foreword

The introduction by the Galway County Board of the ‘Parish Rule’ in 1966 saw the emergence of new teams throughout the county. The dominance of a few larger clubs faded and, with a whole parish to pick from, success came quickly for Athenry’s under age teams. This would not have been possible without the dedication and skill of a remarkable group of players, their mentors and the leadership of club officers. Winning the club’s first and three county minor hurling titles, a first under 16 title and North Board football titles at under 16 and minor was the perfect start for the club. It displayed what it could be achieve with teams representing Athenry parish. Success at senior level narrowly eluded the club in the 1970’s. However, inspired by the great P.J. Molloy, and after over a century of endeavour, on 18th of October 1987 the first county cup victory was secured. Several of the players we are honouring represented Galway with distinction, winning awards and All-Ireland Medals in both codes. As we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of that era and acknowledge the achievements and legacy, we can also celebrate the remarkable successe of the Club since then. St. Mary’s GAA Club leads the hurling honours list for that period and is the only Galway club to win county hurling titles in all grades. Today the club continues to draw it’s players, hurling and football, from the parish and it enjoys wonderful support from the local community. A new bright future beckons if the success of underage teams in recent times is any guide, the most recent in under 16 hurling. The thrills and excitement of competitive hurling and football and that all consuming will to win displayed in the past continues in 2017.

Message from Club Chairman Sean Keane I wish to avail of this opportunity, on behalf of the club, to pay tribute to the extraordinary contribution of the players and officials of the 1960’s. Their achievements on the field were matched by their ability to help establish the club as a united local identity and a prominent position in the parish of Athenry. On this special occasion, fifty years later, we are delighted to record in this publication our appreciation of all involved and we hope it will bring back good memories of great days. Gaelic games have been played in Athenry since the foundation of the GAA but the Club in it’s present format is only in existence since 1966. The success we have enjoyed, including winning three All-Ireland Club Hurling Titles and eight County Senior Hurling Championships, was built on a solid foundation in the early days which the players and mentors we honour today can be very proud of. I wish to acknowledge the role many of them played, in different ways, in those successes and thank them sincerely for their involvement. Sadly, some of our players, mentors and supporters are no longer with us, we fondly remember them and their valued contribution, enthusiasm and dedication. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha.

Championship Winning Captains Minor & Under 16 (A) since 1966

ATHENRYCLUB ROLLOF HONOUR 1966 - 2017 (July)

HURLING All-Ireland Club: 1997, 2000, 2001 (3)

COUNTY MINOR 1966 Tom Long 1967 Anthony Poniard 1969 Gerry Kelly 1986 Martin Fitzpatrick 1987 Gerry Keane 1988 Paul Hardiman

County Senior: 1987, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 (8) Connacht Senior: 1987, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 (8) County Intermediate: 1998 (1) County Junior A: 1993, 2004, 2011 (3) County Junior C: 1996, 2006 (2) County Under 21: 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1994, 1998, 2001, 2007, 2014 (10) County Minor: 1966, 1967, 1969, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, 2010 (10) County Under 16: 1968, 1985, 1986, 1994, 1996, 2005, 2017 (7) County Under 14: 1984, 1992, 1994, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2016 (7) County Under 14 Féile na nGael: 2014. 2015, 2016 (3)

1993 Donal Moran 1994 Brian Higgins 1995 John Feeney 2010 Jack Gibbons COUNTY UNDER 16 1968 Johnny Gannon 1985 Gerry Keane 1986 Paul Hardiman 1994 Donal Keane 1996 Shane Donoghue (H) - David Glynn (F) 2005 Keith Jordan 2017 Donal Parr

County Under 12: 2004 (1) County Under 21B: 1982 (1) County Minor B: 1981 (1) County Under 14B: 1982 (1)

First county minor winning captain Tom Long (1966)

FOOTBALL

County Under 16: 1996 (1) County Under 14: 2006 (1) County Junior B: 2004 (1) County Minor B: 1984, 1985, 1995, 2004, 2009 (5)

County Under 16B: 1985 (1) County Under 14B: 2005 (1)

County Minor Hurling Champions

1967 The champions began the defence of their county title with an impressive victory over Abbeyknockmoy by 4-7 to 1-5 in the North Board Championship. Following the game there was a state of panic among the Club’s minor players when Abbeyknockmoy lodged an objection. The County Board ordered a replay fixed for Mountbellew but Abbeyknockmoy failed to field a team and Athenry were awarded the game. They recorded a good win over Turloughmore in the next game winning by 6-6 to 3-2 and had a runaway win over Skehana in the North Board Final. With the final score 6-11 to 0-4 and six of the previous years championship winning side in their lineout, Athenry were always in control, and certainly gave notice that they intended to hold on to the title. It was one way traffic too in the county semi-final against Liam Mellows at Kenny Park. The home venue had little effect on the outcome as Athenry were on top in all sections throughout the hour, winning by 10-5 to 1-6. Impeccable displays by midfielder Christy Coffey, fullback Gerry Donoghue, halfback Tom Burke and opportunist corner forward Vincent Madden gave Athenry a comfortable victory. The County Final was played at Pearse Stadium and Athenry retained their title, defeating Mullagh by 5-2 to 3-3. The winners were well on top in the opening half and led at the interval by 2-2 to 0-2. The second half was far more competitive as Mullagh fought back into contention but a goal by Vincent Madden clinched the title for Athenry near the end. The stars of the game for Athenry were fullback Gerry Donoghue who was as solid as a rock, Ray

1966 Athenry caused a major upset when they reached their first ever County Minor Hurling Final by defeating Portumna in the semi-final. The Portumna side had no answer when Athenry piled on the pressure. Three goals by Ignatius Madden and two by Juno Barrett put Athenry ahead but goals by Frank Canning levelled the scores with just over five minutes remaining. Tension was at its peak when Ray Glynn pointed a free from seventy yards to give his side the lead again, which they held until the final whistle. In glorious sunshine, on September 18th, at Kenny Park the home team won their first county minor hurling title defeating Castlegar by 6-5 to 3-3. Starting favourites the Athenry side was slow to settle but nevertheless looked the better side from start to finish. Goals by John Joe Brady and Michael Coffey in the first half gave Athenry a halftime lead of 2-3 to 1-5. On the resumption Castlegar launched an all out attack but Tom Howley saved brilliantly in the Athenry goal. With John Connolly doing trojan work for Castlegar at centreback, and proving to be Athenry’s biggest obstacle, they had to improve as the game progressed. Willie Cummins pointed from a free before the bustling Ignatius Madden put the home team further ahead when he banged in a goal. Christy Coffey added another point and, after a fine solo run, Johnny Crosby passed to opportunist Michael Coffey for another goal. The dust had barely settled when Juno Barrett with the best score of the day, shook the net with a ground shot from forty yards. It was now ‘Cashels’ turn, John Connolly goaled from a free with Gerry Glynn adding a point from play. Athenry however, were too far ahead and to clinch the title Michael Coffey completed his hat trick with another goal before the final whistle.

Tom Howley could not be faulted in theAthenry goal while Tom Long played a captain’s part at right full back and his long crisp clearances were a feature of the game. Gerry Donoghue was like a rock at full back and Jim Jordan in the other corner was a staunch defender. County minor Willie Cummins enhanced his reputation at wing back as did centre half Ray Glynn and wing back Paddy Gannon played himself to a standstill. Anthony Poniard and Christy Coffey were magnificent at midfield and gave a good supply of the ball to their forwards. Eamonn Mullins held his own against John Connotly with Juno Barrett and John Crosby playing havoc with the ‘Cashel’ backs. Michael Coffey was an opportunist corner forward as was John Joe Brady in the opposite corner with big full forward lgnatius Madden having a hand in most of the Athenry scores. Under the watchful eye of Johnny Crosby Snr. the team, in the weeks before the final, had trained in the Tennis Court Pavilion on the Tuam Road. There was total shock when Johnny took the hurleys off the players ten days before the game. It was fitness training and massages every night with his magic potion of olive oil mixed with turpentine. MINOR FINAL LINEOUT 1966 1 Tom Howley, 2 Tom Long (C), 3 Gerry Donoghue, 4 Jim Jordan, 5 Paddy Gannon, 6 Ray Glynn, 7 Willie Cummins, 8 Anthony Poniard, 9 Christy Coffey, 10 John Crosby, 11 Eamonn Mullins, 12 Juno Barrett, 13 Michael Coffey, 14 Ignatius Madden, 15 John Joe Brady, 16 Luke Glynn, 17 Kevin Connolly, 18 Johnny Mullins, 19 Johnny Healy, 20 Chester Redmond, 21 Alfie McNamara, 22 Noel O’Grady 23 Noel Kelly. MANAGEMENT: Martin Maloney, Pake Ruane, Thomas Lally, Jim Ruane, Gill Ruane, Fr. Martin Gleeson, J.J. Kelly, Gerald Corbett, Michael Quinn, Bobby Gardner and John Crosby.

1966-67

Glynn and Tom Burke were outstanding in the ha l f back l i ne , as was John Cr osby a t midf ield, who gave an excel lent display. Team Captain Anthony Poniard was man-of-the match and played a powerful game at centre forward well supported by Noel Kelly, Johnny Mullins and Vincent Madden.The team arrived back to Athenry to a hero’s welcome having stopped at Poniards, home of captain Anthony on the way to show off the Cup to his father Mick who was unable to attend the game. MINOR FINAL LINEOUT 1967 1 Luke Glynn, 2 Patsy Kelly, 3 Gerry Donoghue, 4 Gerry Kelly, 5 Paddy Gannon, 6 Ray Glynn, 7 Tom Burke, 8 John Crosby, 9 Christy Coffey, 10 Joe Glynn 11, Anthony Poniard (C), 12 Noel 0’Grady, 13 Noel Kelly, 4 Johnny Mullins, 15 Vincent Madden, 16 Stephen Cloonan, 17 John Joe Burke, 18 Tom Coffey, 19 Eugene Glynn, 20 James Gurley, 21 Johnny Gannon. MANAGEMENT: Pake Ruane, J.J. Kelly, Tommy Lally, Bobby Gardner, Jim Ruane, Gill Ruane, Gerald Corbett, Fr. Martin Gleeson, Michael Quinn. and James Corbett

COUNTY MINOR HURLING CHAMPIONS 1967: Front Row: (left to right.) Patsy Kelly, Luke Glynn, Anthony Poniard (Captain), Johnny Mullins, Tom Coffey, Gerry Kelly, Ray Glynn, Second Row: (left to right) Noel O`Grady, Eugene Glynn, Noel Kelly, Christy Coffey, Tom Burke, Joe Glynn, John Crosby, Stephen Cloonan, Vincent Madden, Pake Ruane. Back Row: (left to right) Fr. Martin Gleeson Paddy Gannon, John J Burke and Gerry Donoghue.

Presentation of the County Minor Fr. Griffin Memorial Cup to 1967 winning captainAnthony Poniard by Galway County Board Chairman Canon James O’Dea.

Under 16 Hurling

1968 In the North Board Under 16 Hurling Championship Athenry trounced Turloughmore in the final and qualified to meet Loughrea in the county semi-final. In an exhilarating exhibition of hard ground hurling and a grandstand finish Athenry emerged winners by one point, 4-4 to 4-3. A brave attempt to level the scores by Kieran Fitzgerald from a fifty-yard free hit the post and was cleared. The final against Oranmore/Maree also lived up to expectations and both sides produced an excellent display of stickwork. Athenry had to fight tooth-and-nail to overcome a superb West Galway fifteen. After a spate of nervousness at the start, Athenry settled down and at the interval led by 1-2 to 0-2. According to The Connacht Tribune ‘Pep talks to both sides produced the required results after the interval. The tempo became fast and the endeavours became furious-though at no time did rancour creep into the exchanges-” Athenry stayed ahead and were winners by 4-5 to 4-3. The trophy ‘Corn Ui Chaoimh” was presented to the Athenry Captain Johnny Gannon by Mattias Mac Donnacha, Chairman of Coiste lomana who complimented both sides on the high standard of their play. Ahead of his time team manager Seamus Cullinane brought the team to the 1969 Railway Cup Finals in Croke Park on St. Patrick’s Day. On a wonderful day for Connacht they saw the footballers defeat Munster to win the title and the hurlers draw with the men from the south in a thrilling game. Among the hurling greats playing in the final were Munsters Jimmy Doyle, Eamon Cregan and Justin McCarthy while Connacht’s stars on the day were John Connolly, Sam Stanley and Padraic Fahy. Following the games they went to the Skylon Hotel for a meal and were presented with their County Under 16 Medals by Tipperary and Munster greats John O’Donoghue and John Flanagan. The team management was Paddy Ryan (Secretary), Gerald Corbett and Seamus Cullinane (Manager).

County Under 16 Hurling Champions 1968 Front Row: (left to right) Johnny Cannon, Sean Staunton, P. J. Molloy, Christy Morrissey, Leo Coffey, Tony Kelly, Gerry Connaughton, Michael Morrissey, Frank Kilkelly, Christy O’Grady, Michael Donnellan. Back Row: (left to right) Sean Hynes, Kieran Barrett, Francis Joyce, Gabriel Coffey, Kevin Donoghue, Brian Hardiman, Pakie Flannery, Joe Killeen, P. J. Killeen, John Quinn, Paul McDonagh and Johnny Gannon.

Under 16 hurling team captain Johnny Gannon (left) and Seamus Cullinane (right) manager of the side that won the Club’s first ever County Under 16 Hurling Title in 1968.

UNDER 16 FINAL LINEOUT 1968 1 Tony Kelly, 2 Joe Killeen, 3 Johnny Gannon (C) 4 John Quinn, 5 P. J. Killeen, 6 Frank Joyce, 7 Kieran Barrett, 8 Pakie Flannery, 9 Sean Hynes, 10 Gerry Connaughton, 11 Kevin Donoghue, 12 P. J. Molloy, 13 Sean Staunton, 14 Brian Hardiman, 15 Leo Coffey, 16 Christy Morrissey, 17 Michael Morrissey, 18 Francis Kilkelly, 19 Michael Donnellan, 20 Christy O’Grady, 21 Gabriel Coffey, 22 Paul McDonagh, 22 Johnny Cannon. MANAGEMENT: Seamus Cullinane, Paddy Ryan and Gerald C orbett.

MINOR FINAL LINEOUT 1969 1 Michael Poniard, 2 Joe Killeen, 3 Johnny Gannon, 4 Pat Kilkelly, 5 Francis Joyce, 6 Tom Burke, 7 Kieran Barrett, 8 Luke Glynn, 9 Sean Hynes, 10 Pakie Flannery, 11 Gerry Kelly (C), 12 Eugene Glynn, 13 P. J. Molloy, 14 Kevin Donoghu, 5 Leo Coffey, 16 Paddy Forde, 17 P. J. Killeen, 18 Michael Morrissey, 19 Paul McDonagh, 20 Gerry Connaughton 21 Michael Donnellan, 22 Gabriel Coffey, 23 Tom Coffey MANAGEMENT: Gerald Corbett, Pake Ruane, Tommy Lally, Bobby Gardner, Jim Ruane, Gill Ruane and Michael Mullins.

1968-9

Minor Hurling

1969 The Club’s minor hurling team qualified for the North Board Final without playing a game as Shehana failed to field a team. Turloughmore were no match for Athenry in the final and in the County semi-final they defeated Oranmore/Maree by 1-8 to 0-6 to qualify for their fourth successive minor hurling final.They defeated Craughwell in the Final by 5-11 to 4-8. “Athenry win thrill-a-minute minor final” was the caption on a report of the game in The Connacht Tribune. At Pearse Stadium, in one of the best games of the year, playing fast, open and continuously attacking hurling both teams thrilled the small attendance. The scoring started in the very first minute when Luke Glynn sent over a point but Athenry squandered several scoring chances. Suddenly they clicked and scores followed in quick succession, the two best from long range by Tom Burke, Athenry’s centreback. He was the rock on which almost every worthwhile Craughwell attack floundered. His first score was a goal from a seventy-five yard shot and he followed it with a magnificent point from a sideline cut. Athenry led by 2-6 to 2-1 at the halftime. At the start of the second half, no nonsense Athenry began as if they were going to win easily, making use of their chances and early dominance. Before Craughwell knew what was happening they whacked in a couple of gaols. With a power packed display, Oliver Cloonan brought Craughwell back into the game with a goal but their defence crumbled and Athenry took full advantage to secure a comfortable winning margin.

COUNTY MINOR HURLING CHAMPIONS 1969 Front Row: (left to right) Joe Killeen, Paddy Forde, P. J. Killeen, Leo Coffey, Michael Morrissey, Gerry Kelly (Captain), P. J. Molloy, Patsy McDonagh, Sean Hynes, Gerry Connaughton, Michael Donnellan. Back Row: (left to right) Tom Burke, Eugene Glynn, Johnny Gannon, Kevin Donoghue, Michael Poniard, Pakie Flannery, Luke Glynn, Pat Kilkelly, Francis Joyce and Kieran Barrett.

The Connacht Tribune stated “Credit for Athenry’s great victory must go to their brilliant halfback line of Francis Joyce, Tom Burke and Kieran Barrett and their midfield man Luke Glynn. Up front P.J. Molloy and Eugene Glynn shone.” After the game Mattias MacDonagh presented the County Cup to Athenry Captain Gerry Kelly before the team and officials ajourned to the Hilltop Hotel for a well deserved meal and to watch Kilkenny defeat Cork in the All-Ireland Hurling Final.

MINIORHURLING FINALPRESENTATION Chairman of Coiste Iomana na Gaillimhe Maitias MacDonnacha presents the County Minor Cup toAthenry captain Gerry Kelly .

Officers and team officals during the 1960’s Pake Ruane, Gerald Corbett and Tommy Lally helped to establish the Club as a major force in under age competitiions.

Under 16 Football

1967 The Club’s Under 16 football team won the North Board championship defeating Mountbellew in the final by 1-5 to 0-6. Played during a thunderstorm and downpour Mountbellew led by four points at halftime. A brilliant goal by Pakie Flannery put Athenry back into the game early in the second half. From then until the end they took control and held on to record a historic first North Board victory in Juvenile football. St. Michael’s defeated Athenry in the County semi-final. NORTH U16 FINAL LINEOUT 1967 1 Pat Kilkelly, 2 Johnny Gannon, 3 Stephen Cloonan (C), 4 Tom Coffey, 5 Gerry Corley, 6 Tom Burke, 7 Kieran Barrett, 8 Sean Hynes, 9 Pakie Flannery, 10 P. J. Molloy, 11 Gerry Kelly, 12 Luke Glynn, 13 Pakie Corley, 14 Johnny Curran, 15 Frank Joyce, 16 Michael Gannon, 17 Stevie Duane, 18 Richard Mulkerrins, 19 Brian Hardiman, 20 Tony Kelly, 21 John Quinn, MANAGEMENT: Anthony Donoghue, Michael Burke and Fr. Martin Gleeson. All-IrelandCollegesFinal 1964 Inspired by the great Galway duo of Jimmy Duggan andColieMcDonagh and turning in a truly magnificent performance of precision football, St. Jarlath’s College, Tuam defeated St.Mel’s of Longfordby 1-10 to0-4 in the 1964 All-Ireland Senior Colleges Football Final replayat Tullamore. But it was Athenry’s Paddy Madden, who lined out at full forward, who stole the show. He had a dream game and crashed home a

NORTH BOARD UNDER 16 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS 1968 Front Row: (left to right.) P. J. Molloy, Tony Kelly, Francis Joyce, Tom Coffey, Stephen Cloonan (Captain), Sean Hynes, John Quinn, Kieran Barrett, Pakie Corley, Michael Gannon. Back Row: (left to right) Luke Glynn, Gerry Kelly, Pat Kilkelly, Stevie Duane, Johnny Gannon, Richard Mulkerrins, Tom Burke, Brian Hardiman, Johnny Curran, Gerry Corley and Pakie Flannery.

Under 16 football team captain Stephen Cloonan (left) and Fr. Martin Gleeson (right) trainer of the North Board Champions 1967

wonderful goal in the opening half. It was the score that broke St. Mel’s heartsandwhen the Athenry man was pulleddown, tosave what would surely have been another goal, and Duggan pointedtheresulting freeJarlath’swereon theirway to victory.

Michael Burke (left) winner of Connacht Junior football medals in 1966 and 1969 also a club mentor. Martin Maloney (right) served as Club Secretary and team mentor during the 1960’s

Paddy Madden

1967-9

Minor Football

1 969 At Tuam Stadium the Club’s minor footballers had three goals to spare over Mountbellew in the first round of the North Board Championship winning by 3-5 to 0-5. Though they had knocked out some of the fancied teams in the championship Glenamaddy were easily defeated by Athenry in the semi-final. The first half produced the best football of the game, but the winners took control in the second half and forced Glenamaddy to concentrate on a defensive game to prevent a heavier defeat.The final score was 0-11 to 0-2. Gerry Corley made a welcome return to the Athenry side for the North Board Final against Killererin at Tuam Stadium. The Killererin side were no match for Athenry who won with a comfortable margin of fourteen points, 1-16 to 0-5. “Sixteen points, stated the Tuam Herald, shows the true worth of the Athenry attack and the game will be remembered by the small attendance for one of the best goals ever seen at the venue, a sizzling shot after a searing solo run by Athenry’s left half forward Luke Glynn” The Herald continued “Gerry Kelly played a captains part for the winners and his strength and power were altogether too much for Kevin O’Brien. Luke Glynn was in scoring form and ended with an impressive 1-8. Stephen Cloonan, Tom Burke and Gerry Corley were outstanding in the Athenry defence while Pakie Flannerey and Sean Hynes displayed great aptitude for work at midfield. P. J. Molloy, Pakie Corley and Frank Joyce were not far behind Kelly in the attack.” Ballinasloe were no match for Athenry in the County semi-final at Mountbellew. The North Board champions were in control throughout and easily qualified for the county final winning with a final score of 4-11 to 1-1 in their favour. Hopes of a historic double were shattered by Galway City side St. Michael’s in the County Final by a margin of three points .

NORTH BOARD MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS 1969 Front Row: (left to right) Gerry Holland, Gerry Doherty, Ossie O’Grady, Tom Burke, Kieran Barrett, P. J. Molloy, Gerry Kelly (Captain), Francis Joyce, Sean Hynes. PakieFlannery, BackRow: (left to right)Michael Poniard, JoeKilleen, TomCoffey, PakieCorley, Kevin Donoghue, Eugene Glynn, Gerry Corley, Johnny Gannon, Stephen Cloonan, Pat Kilkelly, Brian Hardiman and Luke Glynn.

Athenry team officials and mentors (from left) Paddy Ryan, John Crosby and Jim Ruane played key roles inAthenry’s hurling successes during the 1960’s.

NORTH MINOR FINAL LINEOUT 1969 1 Pat Kilkelly, 2 Kevin Donoghue, 3 Stephen Cloonan, 4 Johnny Gannon, 5 Gerry Corley 6 Tom Burke, 7 Kieran Barrett, 8 Pakie Flannery 9 Sean Hynes, 10 P. J. Molloy, 11 Gerry Kelly (C) 12 Luke Glynn, 13 Pakie Corley, 14 Eugene Glynn 15 Frank Joyce, 16 Gerry Holland, 17 Gerry Doherty, 18 Joe Killeen, 19 Ossie O’Grady 20 Michael Poniard, 21 Tom Coffey, 22 Brian Hardiman MANAGEMENT: Anthony Donoghue, Michael Burke and Fr. Martin Gleeson.

Gill Ruane a team mentor during the 1960’s

1960’s

Handball

1960’s In September 1961 hurricane ‘Debbie’ caused considerable damage and destruction throughout the country. With trees down and roads blocked, the main problem facing Athenry handballers was ‘would the bus the Club had hired be able to get through to Tuamgreaney for the All-Ireland Handball Finals on the following day?’ Gerry Cronnolly and Michael Kelly had secured a place in the junior hardball doubles final. At Horse-and-Jockey they had defeated Tipperary’s Paddy Hickey and Tom Brady in the semi-final. After several detours the bus carrying the Athenry players and supporters finally made it to the east Clare village of Tuamgreaney. With fine victories over Mayo and Sligo in the Connacht Championship, Gerry Cronnolly and Michael Kelly were hard pressed to win by three games to one in a cracking semi-final against Kilkenny’s Hanlon and Horgan. In the final the Athenry pair played with confidence and power to win by three games to one. Athenry and Galway had won their first All-Ireland title after a break of twenty-one years. The All-Ireland champions got a rousing welcome home that night in Athenry and the celebrations lasted for weeks. It was fitting that Gerry Cronnolly should win a hardball title, as it was he who was mainly responsible for the revival of the game in Galway and Connacht. In Athenry there was always fierce competition for places on Handball Teams with the Old Abbey Alley regarded as the ‘fastest in the country’. One disadvantage though was that the ball often went into the river only to be found days later in Newford. The Club had many outstanding players who won National Titles and that tradition peaked in the 1950’s and 60’s. Gerry Cronnolly became part of that great sporting culture and fondly remembers some of the ‘greats’- Christy O’Grady (best player), Paddy Corley (great with both hands), Joe Howley, Tom Cleary, Mick Doherty, Lol Ryan, Johnny Keane, Pa Hall, Tom McNamara, Paddy Mulkerrins, Jimmy McCormack and his partner Mick Kelly who lived in Kelly’s Step Down Pub, Northgate Street. 1965 was also a most successful and memorable year for Athenry handball players as they won five Connacht titles and made history by winning the All-lreland Minor Hardball Doubles, the county’s first ever minor title. Tony Corley and Seamus Lynch beat Kildare’s T. Geoghan and A. Campbell by two games to one in an exciting contest to capture a well deserved All-Ireland title. Urged on by a large crowd of supporters in the final at Roscommon the Athenry pair showed considerable ability and speed. Versatile Tony Corley collected several Galway and Connacht titles before winning the All-Ireland Minor Doubles championship in partnership with club mate Seamus Lynch. He was honoured with a Galway Sports Star Award in 1965 - it was a pity that both Athenry players were not honoured, but there could be only ‘one star’ in each sport at that time.

ALL-IRELAND JUNIOR HANDBALLCHAMPIONS 1961 Athenry’s Michael Kelly and Gerry Cronnolly

ALL-IRELANDMINORHANDBALLCHAMPIONS 1965 Seamus Lynch and Tony Corley with parents Eileen and Paddy Corley and Mary Lynch. Published by St. Mary’s GAA Club Teams of the 1960’s Committee Tom Carr (Chairman), Joe Killeen, Tom Coffey, Luke Glynn, Tom Long, Noel Kelly, Leo Coffey, Michael Morrissey, Gerald Corbett, Jarlath Cloonan, Paddy Farrell, Michael Quinn, Vincent Madden and Mick Crimmins. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this publication.

CUP AND MEDALS WON IN THE 1960’S

County Under 16 Hurling

County Minor Hurling

North Board Minor Football

Fr. Griffin Memorial Cup (Minor Hurling)

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Bobby Gardner (left) clubmentor, county official and highly repected referee withMichael Quinn (right) a club officer, hurling and football mentor and also served as handball club secretary in the 1960’s.

Gerry Kelly captained Athenry in the 1969 Minor Hurling and Football County Finals

Athenry Junior Football Team 1969 Front Row: (left to right) Paul Waldron, Gene Burke, Adrain Browne, Ambrose Garvey, Chester Redmond, Luke Glynn, Gerry Corley, Tony Corley, Dermot McNamara, Back Row: (left to right) Gerry Atkinson, John O’Donnell, Sean Dempsey, Padraic O’Donnell, Hillary Lawless, Michael Burke, Ray Glynn, Leo Gardner and Willie Cummins

ATHENRY AS IT WAS

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Tom Long 1966 minor hurling team captain

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Tom Howley 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Gerry Donoghue 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Ray Glynn 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Jim Jordan 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Fr. Willie Cummins 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Aidan Poniard (Rep. father Anthony) 1966/7 minor teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Christy Coffey 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Paddy Gannon 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Christy Coffey 1966/7 minor hurling teams. Eamonn Mullins 1966 minor hurling tea

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Juno Barrett 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to John Crosby 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Edel Kelly (Rep. father Michael Coffey) 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Iggy Madden 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to John Joe Brady 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Kevin Connolly 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Johnny Mullins 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Luke Glynn 1966/7/9 MH and 1967 U16F and 1969 MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Johnny Healy 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Alfie McNamara 1966 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Noel O’Grady 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Paul Ruane ( Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Noel O’Grady 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Noel Kelly 1966/7 minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Joe Maloney (rep. father Martin) Club Secretary 1966.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Mary Somers (Rep. uncle Jim Ruane) team mentor 1966/7.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Gerald Corbett team mentor 1966/7.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Robert Ruane (Rep. father Gill) team mentor 1966/7.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Michael Quinn team mentor 1966/7.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Bobby Gardner team mentor 1966/7 & to mark his 90th year.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Morgan Healy team mentor 1966/7.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Gerry Kelly 1967/9 MH & 1967 U16F and 1969 MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Joe Glynn 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Patsy Kelly 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Vincent Madden 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Tom Burke 1967/9 MH & 1967 U16F and 1969 MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Stephen Cloonan 1967 MH & 1967 U16F and 1969 MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Eugene Glynn 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to John Joe Burke 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Tom Coffey 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Sean Hynes 1967/9 MH, 1968U16H&1967U16Fand1969MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to James Gurley 1967 minor hurling team.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Johnny Gannon 1967/9 MH, 1968U16H&1967U16Fand1969MF.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Elizabeth Kelly (Rep. father Michael) 1961 All-Ireland JuniorHandball Champion.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Gerry Cronnolly 1961 All-Ireland Junior Handball Champion.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Gerry Corley (Rep. brother Tony) 1965 All-Ireland Minor Handball Champion.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Joe Lynch (Rep. brother Seamus) 1965 All-Ireland Minor Handball Champion.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Tony Kelly 1968 Under 16 hurling team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Joe Killeen 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to John Quinn 1968 Under 16 hurling team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to P.J. Killeen 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling teams.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Frank Joyce 1969 MH, 1968U16H&1967U16Fand1969MF.

Guest John Connolly makes a presentation to Juno Barrett (Rep. brother Kieran) 1969 MH, 1968U16H&1967U16Fand1969MF.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Pakie Flannery 1968 Under 16H&1967U16Fand1969MF.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Gerry Connaughton 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Leo Coffey 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Kevin Donoghue 1968 Under 16H & 1969 Minor H & F teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to P.J. Molloy 1968 U16H, 1969 MH, 1967 U16 & 1969 MF teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Michael Morrissy 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Michael Donnellan 1968 Under 16 & 1969 Minor hurling team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Christy O’Grady 1968 Under 16 hurling team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationtoMattieCoffey(Rep.hisbrother Michael)1968 U16&1969Minorhurlingteams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto Johnny Cannon1968 Under16hurlingteam.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto NiallCullinane(Rep.his father Seamus)1968 Under16Teammanager.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto PaddyForde1969 Minor hurlingteam.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto DavidPoniard(Rep.his father Michael)1969MinorHurling&FootballTeams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto GerryCorley1967 Under 16 &1969Minor football teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto MichaelGannon1967 Under16 football team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto GerryDoherty1969 Minor football team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto StevieDuane1967 Under16 football team.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationto AnthonyDonoghuementor 1967U16&1969Minorfootball teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentationtoMichaelBurkementor1967 U16&1969Minorfootball teams.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Ossie O’Grady 1969 Minor football team.

Guest County Board Chairman Pat Kearney addresses the gathering at the Raheen Woods Hotel.

Guest John Connolly with local GAA historian Gerald Corbett and former All-Star and All-Ireland Medal winner P. J. Molloy.

Guest Christy Tyrell addresses the gathering at the Raheen Woods Hotel.

Guest Christy Tyrell makes a presentation to Fr. Martin Gleeson trainer and mentor 1967 Under 16 and 1969 Minor football teams.

Guest John Connolly with Bobby Gardner who was honoured for his outstanding service to the Club over many decades..

Guests Fr. Martin Gleeson and Fr. Willie Cummins prepare to say Mass at the Raheen Woods Hotel.

Gerald Corbett with Galway County Board chairman Pat Kearney and a selection of cups won by the county and club.

Club Chairman Sean Keane welcomes guests to the Raheen Woods Hotel for Mass with Fr. Martin Gleeson and Fr. Willie Cummins.

Readers Gerry Kelly and Paul Ruane with Fr.s Willie Cummins and Martin Gleeson

Guest presenter Christy Tyrell with All-Ireland Minor Handball winners Gerry Corley and Joe Lynch representing his late brother Seamus.

Guest presenters Christy Tyrell and John Connolly with P. J. Molloy All-Ireland Medal winner (2) and a GAA All-Star in 1977.

Cups on display at function won by club and county in 2017 including the Allianz Hurling League, Leinster Senior Hurling (Bob O’Keefe) and County Under 16 Hurling.

Edited and designed by JarlathCloonan - Printed by A&TPrint Tel: 091 850771