It was with a great sense of sadness and loss that Clontarf members, of all ages, learned of the death of Harry, last Friday.
A true gentleman and a legend, admired by generations of members not just from Clontarf, but by those from clubs far and wide, Harry served Clontarf Rugby Club in a voluntary capacity, on and off the field, for fifty-eight years. He was a true ambassador for sport and for volunteering,
Harry served as Club President in 1981/1982 and was made an Honorary Life Member of the Club in 1986.
In his time, Harry took scores of new players “under his wing”, especially those who had arrived from overseas. Testament to this was the fact that many former players maintained contact with him years after their playing days were over and their association with Clontarf gone.
While Harry was best known to many generations of players for “running the line” Harry’s “behind the scenes” grounds maintenance activities, at one stage on his own, but in more recent times, with a hand-picked crew of “volunteers”, contributed hugely to the successes of Clontarf.
In recognition of his contribution to the game of rugby, Harry was awarded Leinster’s “Rugby’s Volunteer of the Year” in 2006, to be followed with the inaugural “National Sports Volunteer of the Year Award” in 2007.
Harry was a pleasure to know, a hero to many and a legend that will live on, for many years to come.
May he rest in peace.
Removal on Tuesday, 24th January, at 10.30am to St. Mary’s Parish Church, (Church of Ireland), Deerpark, Howth, arriving for 11am service followed immediately thereafter by cremation in Glasnevin Crematorium. Family flowers only – donations if desired to a Charity of your choice.