Seamus McCarthy will deliver a talk on the history of Kinsale GAA at the Temperance Hall, Kinsale, on April 29th at 8pm.
A Tipperary native, he is widely credited with reviving the fortunes of Tipperary football in the 1990s and later managed the Irish team in the Compromise Rules game. Since arriving to work in Kinsale in the 1990s, he has been closely involved in the club’s activities, culminating in the club winning its first adult county title in 2011 in 79 years.
More recently, Seamus, along with Derry Coughlan, Michael Creedon and Robbie O’Leary, has compiled a comprehensive history of the club dating back to 1886. The publication offers a detailed account not only of on-field activities but also reflects the wider social history of the country.
The club has survived the turbulent years of the young state, particularly during the economic difficulties of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, and has consistently relied on strong leadership, including figures such as the late Jack Barrett, Tossie Madden, Nelius O’Regan and Dermot Collins.
In more recent times, renewed confidence within the club is reflected in significant investment in a new ground on the Bandon Road. This progress is also evident in the growth of ladies’ football, with the club contesting two All-Ireland finals and Orla Finn recognised as one of the outstanding players of her generation across the 32 counties.
Chairperson of Kinsale Cultural and Heritage Society, JJ Hurley, said: ‘We are all looking forward to hearing the story of Kinsale GAA, an organisation that has been so important to the social fabric of the town.
‘We are delighted that Seamus has accepted our invitation and know it will be an absolutely fascinating night.’
