GAA world salutes a 'true Gael'

The GAA world in Mayo and beyond has saluted ‘a true Gael’ in John O’Mahony after the former Mayo, Galway and Leitrim manager passed away last Sunday morning following a short illness.

Mayo GAA Cathaoirleach Seamus Tuohy said everyone associated with Mayo GAA was shocked and saddened to hear the news of John’s passing.

“First and foremost, John O’Mahony was a true gentleman. He was kind, caring and so humble. He was passionate about his native county and in particular Mayo GAA. He was such an astute manager and very respectful of the players, their families and all the GAA clubs in Mayo. John had an outstanding GAA brain and was meticulous with his planning and team preparation. He was a GAA innovator and was one of the first GAA managers to ever use video analysis and player performance statistics. John O’Mahony contributed so much to Mayo GAA from his time as a teacher in St. Nathy’s College in Ballaghaderreen to taking over the Mayo U21 team back in 1983. His infamous quote ‘Keep the Faith’ before the 1989 All-Ireland Football Final will always be remembered in Mayo. He was also very involved in club football in Mayo and was always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with clubs in every corner of the county. He always had a friendly smile and acknowledged everyone. He was an amiable, decent man,” commented Seamus Tuohy.

GAA President Jarlath Burns said: “John O’Mahony’s contribution to Gaelic football was immense and he sits alongside monumental managerial figures like Heffernan and O’Dwyer. The record books list his considerable achievements, and he is remembered fondly wherever he went. Those successes were built on his ability to get the very best out of people and to bring them together for a common cause.

"He had a passion for Gaelic games and for helping young people fulfil their potential. We were blessed to have him in our ranks and our deepest sympathies to his wife Gerardine, his daughters Gráinne, Niamh, Rhona, Deirdre and Clíodha, to his extended family and many friends.

Mayo ladies manager Liam McHale was brought into the county scene at under-21 and senior level by O’Mahony and there was nothing O’Mahony would not have done to help you.

“He was a gentleman. His wife is a lovely woman. Beautiful kids. I remember his girls running around the place when we were training. They were fine athletes.

“He brought into Mayo football on the under-21 team when I really had no interest in playing for Mayoo. I came to my first game, I came out as a sub in an All-Ireland semi-final. I played in the final that year and I played for Mayoo there after he took over the senior team brought me in as well.

“I've a lot to be thankful for John, but I wouldn't be the only one. There'd be hundreds of people all over Ireland that John would have had a big impact in their life. When he committed to a team, it was absolutely 100%. He'd drive to Ballaina to pick up for training. He'd do anything like that, aside from being a brilliant manager.

“A lovely man, a gentleman and I just send sympathies to his family now. A very difficult time and I hope they can get through it as best they can, because he's still a very young man, a very popular man in Mayo, Connacht, Galway and Leitrim. He was a true Gael, that's for sure, and a true sportsman, without a doubt.”