A Message from our Club Chairperson

A chairde,

In what has been the darkest week in the club’s history, flags remain at half-mast at Páirc Mhic Shuain/de Barra, Éire Óg, Greystones in solidarity with families, teammates and friends immersed in grief and sorrow.

Although mere words seem insignificant, we will try to convey the indelible contribution our three late club members have made to the club both on and off the field. 

Their passing over the last week reminds us that while initially, it is our exploits on the playing fields that brings us together, it is the sense of enduring belonging, friendship and of being part of a wider community that binds us and keeps us together.

While nothing we can do or say can alter the pain being felt, I would like to stress to all our members that there is always a willing listener at Éire Óg, Greystones.

From time to time, all of us struggle with the challenges of life. So, please remember that there is always a coach, teammate or club committee member who will offer support and ensure the right help is provided.

The club has initiated assistance to provide help where needed over the coming weeks and months. Details will be distributed in the coming days.

I would like to thank the huge number of people who have sent messages of condolence to the club and to the respective families. We have received kind words from the wider Greystones community, Wicklow GAA, LGFA, Camogie and many clubs and associations throughout Wicklow, Ireland and beyond. For this, we are eternally grateful.

To our neighbours in Greystones Rugby Club where Paul and Grace both played with such distinction, a special thanks. 

Paul McNaughton

While Paul initially played rugby internationally and soccer at League of Ireland level, it was the club’s good fortune when he and his wife, Jean made their home in Greystones. A transfer from Bray Emmets was swiftly submitted and Paul went on to play senior football for the club. The club recognises the assistance Paul made to the club over the years both in terms of advice and sponsorship for various fundraisers. A sportsman of the highest calibre across numerous codes and sports, his passing leaves a large void in sport in Greystones and indeed, further afield.

Grace Rush

It was obvious since Grace was a little girl that she was a star performer on the field of play. She shone on the sports fields in both St Kevin’s National School as well as in the Éire Óg Nursery where she quickly mastered the skills of Gaelic Football

Only five weeks ago, Grace scored 1-1 to help our U14 ladies football team win the Wicklow A championship for the first time. Her contribution was pivotal in overcoming a ten point half-time deficit. Indeed, a report from the day made the valid claim that the girls’ second half display ranks as the greatest comeback in Éire Óg history. A picture of the team will have pride of place in our clubhouse.

Just one week later, Grace lined out for the U16 team in the County B Championship final and in typical fashion, scored a crucial goal. Éire Óg won both county finals by two points. With her trademark Dutch braids, her tenacious attitude and skills on the pitch, ‘Rushy’ was a star. While inevitably, there has been an outpouring of grief, over the last number of days, the glowing tributes and lovely stories also told about her, are a testament to the permanent legacy Grace has left in the club. 

Éire Óg Greystones GAA, Camogie and LGFA club, its U14 and U16 players and coaches are honoured to have been part of Grace’s life.

David O’Regan

Originally from West Cork and one of seven, it was the club’s good fortune that Dave and his wife Helen made Greystones their home. As a result, Éire Óg Greystones has benefited from their immeasurable contributions on many fronts over the last ten years. 

A colossus of a man in every sense, Dave was one of the principal reasons behind the enormous growth in our club’s thriving Camogie section.

He was an inspirational coach in both juvenile Camogie and Ladies Football across several age grades. He was also a mentor and friend to all those players lucky enough to be under his guidance.

As an administrator, his vision was crucial when it came to securing many improvements in the club’s facilities and infrastructure in the last number of years.

Husband to Club Treasurer, player and coach Helen and devoted father to juvenile players Lucy and Katie, the O’Regan family are part of the fabric of Éire Óg, Greystones. Dave will be sadly missed by all our underage players and coaches and all in our club.

Funeral details https://rip.ie/death-notice/david-o-regan-delgany-wicklow/514117

This coming week sees us once again make the sad and sombre walk to accompany a club member on their final journey. We do so knowing our club is a poorer place on all fronts – playing, coaching and administration, while remembering the huge contributions all three Éire Óg Greystones members have made.

 “Those we love don’t go away;

They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard but always near.

Still loved, still missed, and very dear…”

                                              Unknown

Is mise

Larry Howard,

Cathaoirleach, Éire Óg, Greystones CLG

2 Comments

  1. To Larry, club members and supporters,
    A beautiful tribute to the indelible mark Paul, Grace and Dave have left on the Club and the wider community. No words can properly express the saddest we share in at their passing…. May God hold them in the palm of his hand….May they rest in Peace.

  2. My sincere condolences to families and all members of Eire OgGreystones club . May they rest in peace.
    Damien Byrne

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