Clann na nGael

Club Person of the Year - 2010

This year’s club person of the year comes from a family steeped in Clann na nGael history, both on and off the field of play. The individual in question came to prominence in the administration side of the club, after a number of years involved as a player at underage.

Having dabbled with the handles of power as minor board assistant treasurer in 1999, and minor board vice-chairperson in 2000, this person entered the senior club boardroom in 2002 at the tender age of 18. During a career that includes being part of 8 separate club executives, the roles carried out include, insurance officer for 6 years, executive youth member for 3 years and club registrar and county board delegate for 1 year each, all of which were diligently fulfilled. During the long tenure as insurance officer this individual ensured players were not out of pocket when injuries occurred while making sure the club availed of all applicable funding from GAA head quarters.

In later years this person has also entered the adult team management sphere, playing instrumental roles as team selector with the 2010 Junior A semi-finalist team, and 2009 Junior B team which captured the county final, At all times having a keen eye for the right thing to do. In recent times, he has helped out with senior team affairs, especially on match day.

He is also a keen advocate of the bi-annual club holiday, attending on numerous occasions.

There is no doubt that, although this accolade is just reward for his unselfish and unrelenting service to date to the club, it is only a pit-stop along the way to what we have no doubt will be a lifetimes involvement in the club, whatever guise that may take in the future. This man will undeniably be thrilled to accept this coveted award, the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a club member by fellow executive and club members, but true to his very courteous manner, it will be received in a gracious style.

Ladies & Gentleman, for his service both this year and over the last decade it gives me immense pleasure to announce this years ‘Club Person of the Year’ and recipient of the ‘Martin McManus’ memorial trophy

Dermot Kelly