Ferbane GAA pay tribute following death of former club chairman

Ferbane GAA have paid a warm tribute to former club chairman Timmy Grogan who died unexpectedly on Friday.

In a social media post, the club said that there were "few who can compare to Timmy Grogan in terms of meeting-room and sideline service" to Ferbane GAA.

'A committee member and club fundraiser from the early 1980s, Timmy progressed to senior administration roles and served as selector with numerous Ferbane teams.

'His initial elevation from a committee role was as part of Ferbane senior team management under Kevin Gavin (county champions) in 1992, Eamon Dooley (finalists) in 1993 and Tony Dunne in 1995.

'He combined that role with the senior squad in the early 90s with a similar role with the junior management set-up. Since 1988 the Ferbane juniors had been in the hands of ‘The Three Wise Men’, Peter Foley as manager, and his trusted Lieutenants, Martin Guinan and Paddy Mulligan. When Paddy sadly passed away in December 1992, Peter turned to Timmy to ensure that ‘The Three Wise Men’ moniker would remain intact.

'The trio continued to guide the squad to the knockout phases on an annual basis only to suffer heartbreak until 1995 when the club captured its first junior title since 1964, defeating Ballinamere in a replayed final in Doon. That team’s transition to the intermediate ranks the following year was flawless, capturing Ferbane’s first intermediate title since 1959, at the first time of asking. This time they defeated St Rynaghs in Shannonbridge, again after a replay. Impressively, Timmy and his cohorts also led Ferbane’s third team to the junior county final of 1996, where they lost narrowly to Walsh Island.

'Teams under their charge were known for edging out close games, often after a replay, and the 1997 Intermediate team eventually overcame Tullamore after a semi-final saga that extended to three games only to lose the final to St Brigids after extra-time in a replay.

'They were also known for ‘going home through Boora’ wherever the game was played and the vibrant social scene associated with their teams contributed handsomely to an unbreakable bond between players and their management.'

Timmy's achievements with the county's junior football team in 1998 were also reflected upon by the club.

'Timmy enjoyed sideline success with Offaly junior footballers. He was a selector with team manager Eamon Mullhall in 1998 when they claimed the Leinster Championship beating Kildare. That team went on to defeat Sligo in the All Ireland semi only to lose to Tipperary in the All-Ireland Final. Timmy was again a selector in 2001 when Offaly regained Leinster success beating Meath in the final under the stewardship of the late Ollie Daly'.

Timmy's contribution to Ferbane GAA from an administration perspective was also lauded.

'Away from the field of play, Timmy took on the role of treasurer of the club when fundraising for the dressing rooms was at its peak in 1996 and 1997 and when they were officially opened, continuing in that position for 1998.

'He became club chairman in 1999 and remained in situ until 2002, while simultaneously representing the club on the county board, and fulfilling key roles on various county sub-committees.

'Whatever his role, Timmy’s mild-mannered disposition and unquestionable dedication endeared him to all with whom he worked. Hugely inoffensive, his capacity to gain the trust of players and committee members served him, his teams and his club well. His contribution was always understated but his service record speaks louder than Timmy ever would. Timmy Grogan was an immense Gael and a true servant of Ferbane and Offaly GAA.

'Ferbane GAA extends our deep sympathy to Timmy’s cousins, neighbours and many friends'.

Timmy is predeceased by his beloved parents Timmy and Lena and cousin Mick Kinnarney.

Timmy will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his loving cousins, neighbours and friends.

Timmy will repose at Teach Lea, Boora (R35 DA50) this evening (Tuesday) from 5.30pm until removal at 7pm to St. Oliver Plunkett Church, Boora.

Ferbane GAA will form a Guard of Honour immediately following Timmy's 11am Requiem Mass tomorrow (Wednesday) in Boora, and he will be laid to rest afterwards in Kilrehan Cemetery.