Sadness at passing of South Liberties GAA Club stalwart Paddy Shanahan

THERE has been widespread sadness in sporting circles and beyond in recent days with news of the passing of South Liberties GAA Club Honorary Life President Paddy Shanahan, of Ballyneety.

The Shanahan surname has been synonymous with the familiar Green and Gold hoops of the 'The Souths' as well as the Green and White of Limerick for many decades with Paddy very much to the fore of that glorious chapter.

A talented dual player, the late Paddy Shanahan's first taste of success with the club came when he won a minor football championship back in 1948. More silverware was to follow when he won Lloyd Cup medals in 1952 and 1956 and Flood Cup pendants in 1956, 1958 and 1963.

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He also won three East Junior hurling championships during the 1950s.  Following on from a successful playing career that saw South Liberties begin their rise to the very pinnacle of Limerick hurling, Paddy served as Club Chairman between 1974 and 1987.

During his tenure he presided over the club's most successful period with several county senior hurling titles being secured.
During this time he  also had a successful stint as Limerick minor hurling selector.

To further his contribution to GAA games, he studied First Aid and it was in this particular capacity that he helped the University of Limerick to Fitzgibbon Cup success in 1989.

The late Paddy Shanahan received many awards over the years, including a 'Cospoir Award' for a lifetime of dedication and service.

Paddy's grandsons have continued the great family tradition in modern times with Albert Shanahan and more recently Anthony Nash both serving as net-minders for the club. 

Albert had a stellar career with club and county, winning Intermediate county and Munster club honours in 2009 as well as winning a NHL medal with Limerick in 1997.  He also won the All-Ireland Poc Fada Championship in both 2001 and 2005.

Anthony also had a hugely successful career with Kanturk and Cork before returning "home" to help South Liberties have their most successful senior hurling championship campaign since the club's golden era.

The late Paddy Shanahan is deeply regretted by his children, sons David and Paul, daughters Rose Lenihan and Phyllis Nash, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, brothers Wallie and Mikie, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, other relatives, neighbours and many friends especially those associated with St Liberties GAA Club passed and present and the wider GAA Circle.

Reposing at Cross's Funeral Home, Ballyneety, on this Saturday evening, October 18 from 5pm to 8pm, followed by removal to St. Patrick's Church, Knockea.

Requiem Mass on Sunday, October 19 at 12.30pm, funeral afterwards to Donoughmore Cemetery.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.