Kerry County Council has paid tribute to the sporting achievements of former Kerry footballer and manager, Mick O’Dwyer, by hosting a Civic Reception in his honour at County Buildings today. Many of the members of the Kerry teams of the past joined Mr O’Dwyer for the reception which heard that his achievements in Gaelic Games were unlikely ever to be surpassed.
The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr John Sheahan, said that between 1954 and 1989, as a player and manager with Kerry, the man being honoured ‘brought Kerry football on the most wonderful roller-coaster of a journey. As player and then manager Mick O’Dwyer won 12 All-Irelands, 11 National Leagues and 23 Munster titles. ‘He was one of the greatest Kerry footballers ever, and then as manager he nurtured the talents of some of the all-time great footballers. These are achievements that are unlikely ever to be surpassed in the future,’ said Cllr Sheahan.
‘When his long and successful playing career was complete he trained the greatest team of all time. Anyone who follows the fortunes of the Kerry team will acknowledge the debt of gratitude that we owe to this great man for the immense pleasure he has given to us all,’ the Cathaoirleach added.
Mick O’Dwyer’s success outside of Kerry was also acknowledged, particularly his roles with Kildare, Laois, and Wicklow.
Paying tribute to Mick O’Dwyer, the proposer of the Civic Reception, Cllr Mike Kennelly, a brother of former Kerry captain, Tim Kennelly, said: ‘Mick O’Dwyer has time for everyone. Big or small, rich or poor, it makes no difference. The man is open and friendly. He is a talker but a listener too. Micko loves the company and the people seek him out wherever he goes.’ Cllr Kennelly presented Mick O’Dwyer with the Sam Maguire Cup which had been borrowed from Dublin for the day.
Council chief executive, Moira Murrell, congratulated the Waterville native on what he had achieved which she said had brought immense pleasure and enjoyment to so many people.
Pictured is Mick O’Dwyer at the Civic Reception in honour of his great achievements last Monday.
Photo by Domnick Walsh – Eye Focus LTD Mobile 087 / 2672033
