Sadness in Dublin and Kildare GAA circles at passing of Kevin McNally

A Dublin flag flies in Croke Park ©Inpho

Many tributes have been paid to well-known Dublin and Kildare GAA figure Kevin McNally who passed away suddenly last week.

The father-of-three won JFC and IFC titles with Ballinteer St John’s before tasting Leinster club IFC success as a goalkeeper with his adopted Ballymore Eustace in 2010. A brother of Angie and Johnny McNally, who both represented Dublin at senior level, Kevin managed the Blessington ladies in Wicklow in more recent times.

His home club said: "Many in the club and Ballinteer area are shocked and saddened to hear about the sudden passing of one of our former senior players and a club stalwart for many years, Kevin McNally.

"Kevin was a key player and leader of the team that rose from the junior ranks of football up to senior football winning the 1998 Dublin intermediate championship on the way and helping put the club on the path to success and at its place in the top ranks GAA in Dublin.

"The family have all been involved in the club as players, coaches and supporters over many years with Johnny and Angie representing the club with distinction for Dublin senior teams over the years. Their father Paddy ‘Podge’ McNally was a proud member and supporter of the club until his death a number of years ago.

"Thoughts and prayers are with his immediate family, wife Audrey, son Seán, daughters Molly and Katie , siblings Angie, Eileen, Trisha, Johnny and Deirdre (Digger), all his wider family, friends, club members and neighbours."

Another heartfelt tribute from Ballymore Eustace read: "It has taken us a few days to find the words as our club and community come to terms with the sudden and unexpected passing of Kevin McNally. We are heartbroken at the loss of a man who gave so much to Ballymore.

"Kevin joined Ballymore around 2005 after beginning his GAA journey with Ballinteer St. John’s. Starting out as a corner forward and free-taker, he later became an outstanding goalkeeper, playing a huge role in our historic Kildare and Leinster Intermediate Championship success in 2010.

"His contribution continued long after his playing days. Kev dedicated himself to coaching and developing our young players, later managing our senior team to Kildare Junior Championship success in 2017.

"A proud Dublin man through and through, Kev was very much Ballymore’s Dub! We will remember his cheeky grin, his willingness to stop for a chat and, above all, that huge laugh that could light up any room.

"Beyond football, Kevin was a devoted husband and father. He leaves a huge gap in our club and community, and our lives are richer for having known him.

"Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Audrey, his children Sean, Molly and Katie, his wider family and all who are grieving his loss. Rest well, our Dublin legend. Thank you, Kev, for the memories, the laughter, the leadership and everything you gave to Ballymore. You will always be one of our own."