Fitting salute to Bal’ legend at inaugural tournament
The inaugural Tony Maher Memorial Tournament, held at Moynihan Park on Sunday morning, proved a resounding success. It was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion and a fitting tribute to one of Ballynacargy GAA’s most loyal and influential figures.
Tony Maher was the heartbeat of Ballynacargy GAA for decades, a true driving force at underage level and the vital link between the club and the local primary school. His dedication in that role kept the youth structures of the club in a healthy state for generations, ensuring a steady flow of young players into the adult ranks. Sunday’s tournament was an occasion he would have cherished, and he would surely have looked down with pride at the enthusiasm, skill and teamwork on display from all the children involved.
Tony’s contribution to the club went far beyond the pitch. As club–school liaison officer for many decades – long before the GAA formally introduced Games Promotion Officers – he gave unrelenting service. He was the ever-present underage manager, selector, coach, kit man alongside his beloved wife Mary, and even team physio when the need arose. His work as groundsman at Moynihan Park was outstanding, while he also served in almost every executive role the club had to offer.
From fundraising and selling lotto tickets to spotting emerging talent at juvenile games, Tony’s loyalty never wavered. Even while battling illness, Tony was determined to attend games in Moynihan Park, the ground he loved so dearly.
Sunday’s event brought all of that legacy into focus. Four U12 teams - Inny Shamrocks, Castletown/Finea/Coole/Whitehall (CFCW), Mostrim and Ardagh - were scheduled to take part, but when Ardagh were unable to attend, Multyfarnham stepped in at short notice. Sincere thanks were expressed to Jimmy Corcoran and his U12 team for answering the call.
The Shield Final produced a thriller, with Multyfarnham narrowly defeating Inny Shamrocks after a brilliant contest. The Cup Final was another cracker, CFCW edging Mostrim in a high-quality clash where three young girls in the Mostrim line-up impressed greatly with their skill and competitiveness. Riley Coyle (Multyfarnham) and Seán Gaffney (CFCW) were named players of the match in the Shield and Cup finals respectively.
Afterwards, Anthony Maher and Westmeath GAA County Committee chairman Frank Mescall spoke warmly about Tony’s immense legacy in the club and offered words of encouragement to the next generation.
The event was superbly organised, with underage chairman Matty Scanlon leading the preparations, supported by the Maher family and friends. Music from DJ Kenneth Smith, refreshments, medals for all participants, and a stirring rendition of Amhrán na bhFiann by soprano Grace Lambden added to the sense of occasion.
The games were recorded with commentary by the legendary comedian Jimmy Connell, better known as Jimmy Jests.
Local businesses and individuals also rallied behind the event, with sponsorship from The Wagon Wheel Pub, The Rustic Inn, Feerick’s Hotel (Rathowen), Creagh’s Garage, Martin Maguire and Son Painting, SP Carpets and Flooring, and Aiden Rae Car Sales.
Referees Shane Maher and Brendan Keena kept play flowing and encouraged the young footballers throughout, while An Siopa volunteers Laura Kerrigan, Aine Heduvan, Nikka Sule and Lia Heduvan did sterling work on the day.
Parents, grandparents and supporters turned out in big numbers, ensuring a lively atmosphere and a celebration befitting a man whose commitment to his club was second to none.
For Ballynacargy GAA, the Tony Maher Memorial Tournament was more than just a series of games - it was a heartfelt salute to a Gael whose lifetime of dedication left an indelible mark on his community.