There was a great sense of shock in the Ardagh parish and the wider community when the news of the totally unexpected death of Brendan Cummins filtered through. Brendan spent most of working life as an agricultural Science Teacher at Multifarnham College an later at Ballyhaise Agricultural Centre. Born in the town land of Croslea, Brendan's next door neighbours were the famous Keenan football family of whom Bill, Paddy and Jimmy were household names. Little wonder then that Brendan grew up in an atmosphere of Gaelic Football lore and tradition. At 16, Brendan played centre field on the minor side that brought the parish its due (and only) Minor Championship title. A big strapping lad, Brendan released his true potential under the guidance of the great Derry coach, Sean Young, who guided the Ardagh side to a magnificent victory over red hot favourites, Longford Slashers, to win the 1978 Senior County title. On that day Brendan and partner Pat Higgins turned in a marvellous display at midfield and both players were selected to fill the midfield gaps with the county team on the following Sunday. Known for his easy going manner and a wry sense of humour, Brendan Cummins was a very active club member, seldom if ever missed training and was always very popular with his team mates. The majority of those team mates walked shoulder to shoulder in the guard of honour at his funeral in his native Ardagh. The Saint Patrick's Club have lost a good friend who will be sadly missed. Courtesy of the Longford Leader. 12 October, 2007. Tweet

Most Read Stories