So sorry to report the sad passing of Duleek and Meath star Declan Brennan.

Declan started at right half forward on the Meath team beaten by Cavan in the All Ireland senior replay of 1952.

A newcomer to the great Meath team of this period but Declan's inclusion for the second Cavan game was no major surprise. Just a few weeks earlier the Duleek youngster shone like a beacon as Leitrim in the Home Final and then London in the All Ireland junior final proper were hammered.

Also promoted from that junior selection was Skyrne's Tom O Brien who lined out at right half back against Cavan.

Declan acquitted himself admirably on the big day amongst a star studded Royal attack which included Brian Smyth on the forty and Paddy Meegan on the other flank. Meanwhile inside were Mattie McDonnell and Peter McDermott in the two corners with Jim Reilly on the edge of the square.

Unfortunately for Declan, he missed out on the great win over Kerry two years later. A little matter of playing rugby, an idiotic rule, ruined his chances of participation.

But Declan continued his GAA involvement, played on with Duleek and regained his place on the Meath team in the latter part of the fifties. Later on he acted as a selector and manager with St Pats Stamullen.

He was also a great follower of the Meath team and 90 year old Declan's last match in support of the Royals was the Super Eight's clash with Kerry at Pairc Tailteann in the summer gone.

A real achiever in all walks of life, off the field Declan Brennan rose to become General Secretary of the Department of Education.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

Funeral details for Declan Brennan:

Hill View, Claristown, Julianstown, Co. Meath and formerly of Duleek. 6th February 2020. Declan beloved husband of Chrissie and daddy to Olive Mary, Manus, Martina, Ronan, Cristín, Sinéad and Cianan. Sadly missed by his wife and family, sons in law Peter, Paul, Pete and Billy, daughters-in-law Sarah and Orlaith, fifteen grandchildren, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Reposing at his home from 4pm until 8pm on Friday evening. Removal on Saturday morning at 10.30am arriving to St. Mary’s Church, Julianstown for Funeral Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in Moorechurch Cemetery. Family flowers only, donations if desired to Bone Marrow for Leukaemia Trust or Alzheimer’s Drogheda Branch.

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