In his report to next Tuesday’s Offaly GAA convention, secretary Colm Cummins reflects on the deep sense of shock and sadness that enveloped the county following the sudden death of senior football manager Liam Kearns last March.

The 60-year-old Tralee native passed away suddenly at his Co. Clare home after attending an Offaly training session just hours earlier.

“Our Senior Footballers’ season was turned on its head on Sunday, March 12 when the shocking news emerged of the sudden passing of Liam Kearns who was in his first year as Offaly manager,” writes Cummins.

“Liam had settled well into the role and was building a great rapport with the players. He was delighted with the response he was getting from the squad and he had a route planned to the Leinster final.”

The Edenderry clubman praised the Offaly players for the manner in which they conducted themselves in the days after Liam’s death.

“On behalf of Offaly GAA, I wish to acknowledge the mature and respectful response from our Senior Squad around Liam’s funeral and within a few days, stepping up to represent the county at a very emotional fixture away to Tipperary,” he added.

“We recorded a fine victory and afterwards the team attended a dinner in Liam’s honour in Semple Stadium. Martin Murphy and his team of selectors should also be commended for the manner in which they stepped up to take the reins.”  

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