Tributes paid to former board member Mick O'Dwyer

Sport Ireland is saddened by the passing of Mick O’Dwyer, a former member of the board of the Irish Sports Council (now Sport Ireland). 

Mr O’Dwyer served as a member of the board of the Irish Sports Council for a five-year term, from September 2002 to September 2007.   

Minister for Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD said: “Mick O’Dwyer was a legend of Gaelic football and an absolute gentleman, whether in victory or defeat. 

"As a coach and a player he was a colossus of the game over five decades and is loved in his native Kerry, all the other counties that he coached, and more widely across the island. 

"My thoughts go out to his family and friends, but he will live forever in the memories of Gaelic football followers the world over. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD said: “I join with Gaelic football fans worldwide, and Irish fans of sport in general, in paying tribute to Mick O’Dwyer. 

"He was one of the finest footballers, and most influential coaches, to have ever graced our native games. His success on the pitch as a player and as a manager speaks for itself, but his true legacy is felt across the country on football grounds and in clubhouses by the many players and fans he inspired. 

"Gaelic football will mourn a legend, but his impact on the game will live forever. I want to express my condolences to Micko’s friends and family, and the faithful fans in Kerry, Kildare, Laois, Wicklow, Clare and all across the globe.”

Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May said: "It's no exaggeration to say that we've lost a true giant of Gaelic games. Whether as a gifted player or a trailblazing coach and manager he left an indelible mark on the Irish sporting landscape. We also recall his time with us fondly. Our condolences go out to all his family and friends" 

Sport Ireland Chairperson John Foley said: “While he will be eternally linked to his beloved Kerry and his incredible exploits in Gaelic Football, few people have done as much for sport as Mick O’Dwyer.    

“He had an influence that reached across sports and across the whole country.     

“We are very proud that for a time he was a member of our board, and we remember the great work that he did.”     

Mr O'Dwyer transformed Gaelic football during his extraordinary 57-year inter-county career as a player and manager. He claimed four All-Ireland titles as a player and eight more as manager of Kerry's legendary 1970s and 80s teams. 

The Waterville native amassed 23 Munster titles and 11 National Leagues, cementing Kerry's dominance in Irish football.  

The thoughts and deepest condolences of all at Sport Ireland are with his wife Geraldine, his sons John, Robbie and Karl, and his entire family. May he rest in peace.   

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.