Special night for Gaels of Kildorrery

Friday night last was an occasion when Kildorrery GAA stars of the past and present were honoured. The setting was the very comfortable Springfort Hall outside Mallow, whose staff looked after everyone really well. HEROES OF '81 When we meet the likes of John Fouhy, Denis Fitzgerald, Kieran O'Connor, Johnny McCarthy and Jimmy Monaghan today, we encounter affable, middle aged family men, who are always good company. We tend to forget that at the start of the 1980s, these individuals were part of what is generally regarded as the best Gaelic football team famed Kildorrery GAA has ever produced. Underage stars who promised much, they and their equally talented team mates, sent out a huge signal of intent when they surprised everyone, except themselves, to capture a junior county title in 1978. Ambitious, driven and very skilful, these 'new kids on the block' were still expected to make little impression in the ultra competitive intermediate ranks. Led by stylish midfielder, John Fouhy, they would go all the way to the final in 1981, before seeing off the challenge of a much vaunted Glanmire side (0-10 to 0-08).

Speaking at last Friday night's reunion, John Fouhy paid tribute to his team mates and their selectors.

"At the time, you looked forward to the games, enjoyed playing and made the most of the celebrations afterwards, but didn't think too much about it after that. Looking back now, it must be acknowledged that it was an exceptionally strong side, what I remember most about 1981, was how fit we were, this really stood to us. Our defence was tight, a good supply of ball always arrived in midfield and we knew we possessed quali

ty forwards, which are essential at all grades of football," he said.

Most of John's colleagues were in attendance on Friday night last and the occasion was

a rare opportunity to recall what were, without doubt, glory days.

KILDORRERY WOMEN HAVE GREAT SEASON

Sharing the platform last Friday night were members of the Kildorrery junior camogie panel (championship and league winners), along with the Kildorrery ladies U21 football team (Funcheon Gaels) who captured a county title. They received their medals from Cork's inter- county star, Ashling Thompson.

Other distinguished guests at the event included Marian Crowley, President Cork LGFA and Cork camogie represenative, Mairead Lynch from Kilworth. Both women congratulated Kildorrery on their success, while reserving special mention for Maria Noonan, who they described as 'one of the most able administrators in the county'.

MC for the evening was club chairman, the always well briefed, Joe Sherlock, who ensured proceedings ran smoothly and more or less on schedule.

REALLY ENJOYABLE CELEBRATION

This was an occasion when the grind of training and stress of big matches was forgotten, as different generations of Kildorrery players reflected on very significant achievements for what continues to be a progressive and very well run club.