The late Michael Butler Arguably one of the best wing backs that ever wore the number seven shirt for South Liberties, Micky Butler, died at his home in Ballyagortha, Ballyneety. He had been ill for sometime and his passing was not unexpected. He was aged 64. When hurling heroes are ever discussed around Knockea and Donoughmore, the name Micky Butler will head the list. His feats with the Liberties were remembered with pride and fondness at his funeral as members of his club which served so well, formed a guard of honour. It was fitting that the number seven jersey adorned his coffin as this was the number he wore at many a hectic encounter at venues such as Caherconlish, Bruff, Kilmallock and the Gaelic Grounds. He played in five county senior hurling finals winning three. he first came to prominence in 1958 when South Liberties wont he juvenile county final and two years later he was on the minor team that claimed county honours. The seeds of a great hurling career were sown during these years and it was only natural that Micky and his fellow players would adorn a higher stage. Senior honours beckoned in 1967, but Kilmallock in a replay ended these hopes. Claughaun upset ambitious in 1971 and a year later at the Gaelic Grounds the might of Patrickswell fell before the onslaught of the Liberties. It was on December 10 amid fierce wind and snow showers that Micky collected his first Daly medal. he added another two to before calling an end to a career that spanned more than 20 years. He was that last hurler in Limerick to wear a cap, possibly the last in the country. His peak cap was his hallmark in every outing. There was one occasion in Caherconlish when he lost his hurley and with his famous cap, helped the ball to evade some flying Fedamore forwards. Speaking of Fedamore he had many a duel with John Condon. It still remains a mystery why neither of these players were never on the county senior team, though Micky did make it into the green of the minor team. Micky Butler was fearless. He typified the spirit and courage of the Liberties in this era. He inspired and encouraged his team mates in the heat of the battle. This great team sailed through many stormy seas, led by the bravery of a man who knew no fear. The green and gold of his famous club was his pride. The more any opposition threw at him the more he enjoyed the challenge. Courtesy of The Limerick Leader 19/08/2006 Tweet

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