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GAA Discussion => GAA Discussion => Topic started by: theticklemister on July 15, 2012, 10:11:01 PM

Title: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: theticklemister on July 15, 2012, 10:11:01 PM
Just interested to know if any ex-county players still play club football who are in late 30s as such. Can't really think of any within my own county as such
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: FL/MAYO on July 15, 2012, 10:15:14 PM
I think Manus Boyle is still playing reserve football with Killybegs, he must be 45 by now, fair play to him.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2012, 10:17:23 PM
nobody will beat tony browne still playing hurling in a munster final at 39, am jealous as f**k to be so fit at that age
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Gold on July 15, 2012, 10:18:23 PM
Brolly played Div 1 in Antrim up to last year. Was playing some stuff too.
Must have been at least 40. Keeper John Mackle played for same club to mid 40s few years ago


Think Enda Gormley played to around same age for Bredagh in Down as did Jody Gormley

Cant think of any others
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: theticklemister on July 15, 2012, 10:21:57 PM
Gormley playing for Glen 111 up to 2006 along with Fergal and Damian McCusker and Gary Magill. Now that was some thirds team; they beat us a few times back in the day!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Faceinthecrowd on July 15, 2012, 10:27:28 PM
Not that long ago enda gormley played for bredagh in down div 3 and 4, I'm sure he was early forties at the time. Jody gormley also played football for bredagh up until two years ago, would have been late thirties. I think joe brolly played for st brigids Belfast up until recently. I know a lot of ex county footballers who are now managing underage teams, usually have sons involved. Enda gormley is in his second year with watty's minors and has done a great job there, Ulster champions last year and they can't get anyone to play them this year!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: thewobbler on July 15, 2012, 11:15:58 PM
There's very few former Down players in the club leagues these days (well, very few who reached a natural retirement from county duty).

It's a stark contrast with 10 years ago when almost every top flight club had a few legends from the 91/94 panels not just making up the numbers, but holding sway.

It was one of the things I noticed most apparent when we last went up to D1 three years ago; almost every team was younger than Ballyholland. We've joined in with the trend ourselves since.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: orangeman on July 16, 2012, 12:08:13 AM
Seamie Moynihan

Maurice Fitz


Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: fitzroyalty on July 16, 2012, 12:11:22 AM
Barry John O'Hagan, played in the AI final 2002, back playing with Clan na Gael in Division 1 Armagh. Think he must be 39 odd.
Not only in great shape but one of the better players playing in Division 1.

Diarmaid Marsden of same club also playing Reserves!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Mourne Rover on July 16, 2012, 12:17:15 AM
One poster said `nobody will beat tony browne still playing hurling in a munster final at 39', but Mickey Linden played in the 2003 Ulster final at the age of 40 and was still turning out for Mayobridge reserve sides into his late 40s.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Syferus on July 16, 2012, 12:27:12 AM
Ciaran McDonald is still going great guns for Crossmalina at 37, scored 9 points in the club championship two weeks ago. John O' really made a hash of that whole episode, Ciaran Mc is among the purest footballers to ever grace a GAA pitch and if you could have got him to buy into a Brian Dooher-type role he would still be a serious weapon for them.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Harold Disgracey on July 16, 2012, 09:50:12 AM
Mattie Lennon played for Derrynoose in a recent league game aged 49 I believe.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Bingo on July 16, 2012, 10:23:44 AM
A similar question could be asked in some counties if "Current County players still playing club football"  ;)
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Newbridge Exile on July 16, 2012, 11:11:52 AM
Joe Irwin would have been at least 42/43 before he retired , Dermot Dougan and Gary Coleman would have been 38/39 before they quit
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Armaghgael on July 19, 2012, 03:48:06 PM
How could anyone forget the most successful club player of all time Oisin McConville? He must be 36/37 and will be aiming for 3 in a row next year
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: andoireabu on July 19, 2012, 05:08:46 PM
Quote from: Newbridge Exile on July 16, 2012, 11:11:52 AM
Joe Irwin would have been at least 42/43 before he retired , Dermot Dougan and Gary Coleman would have been 38/39 before they quit
Was still playing reserves last year and Dermot Heaney was still playing recently also.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: haranguerer on July 19, 2012, 05:46:46 PM
Quote from: Syferus on July 16, 2012, 12:27:12 AM
Ciaran McDonald is still going great guns for Crossmalina at 37, scored 9 points in the club championship two weeks ago. John O' really made a hash of that whole episode, Ciaran Mc is among the purest footballers to ever grace a GAA pitch and if you could have got him to buy into a Brian Dooher-type role he would still be a serious weapon for them.

Wtf???
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: seanaglis on July 19, 2012, 06:03:12 PM
John Rafferty still lines out at half-forward for o'hanlons, poyntzpass.

His son is corner back
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: brokencrossbar1 on July 19, 2012, 06:15:51 PM
John Donaldson is managing Cross II's and is playing as well and he's 41.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Syferus on July 19, 2012, 06:19:09 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on July 19, 2012, 05:46:46 PM
Quote from: Syferus on July 16, 2012, 12:27:12 AM
Ciaran McDonald is still going great guns for Crossmalina at 37, scored 9 points in the club championship two weeks ago. John O' really made a hash of that whole episode, Ciaran Mc is among the purest footballers to ever grace a GAA pitch and if you could have got him to buy into a Brian Dooher-type role he would still be a serious weapon for them.

Wtf???

It's not even a controversial statement. I'm sorry it put your nose out of joint.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: DownFanatic on July 19, 2012, 06:50:00 PM
Back in June 2007, Enda Gormley scored 2-13 for Bredagh against us (Dundrum) in a Down ACFL Division 3 game at Cherryvale in South Belfast. I think he was about 41 at the time. Bredagh won that game 2-18 to 2-09.

Jody Gormley played centre half back that day while Irish News journo Paddy Heaney played at midfield for Bredagh.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Ciarrai_thuaidh on July 19, 2012, 06:56:16 PM
Mick O'Connell played a few games for Valentia juniors a couple of years ago...he was 69 at the time I think! Still looked fairly fit aswell.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: maddog on July 19, 2012, 07:16:24 PM
Quote from: Armaghgael on July 19, 2012, 03:48:06 PM
How could anyone forget the most successful club player of all time Oisin McConville? He must be 36/37 and will be aiming for 3 in a row next year

37 in October i think. Could have done with him in roscommon
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Armaghgael on July 19, 2012, 07:27:29 PM
Quote from: maddog on July 19, 2012, 07:16:24 PM
Quote from: Armaghgael on July 19, 2012, 03:48:06 PM
How could anyone forget the most successful club player of all time Oisin McConville? He must be 36/37 and will be aiming for 3 in a row next year

37 in October i think. Could have done with him in roscommon

Most definitely could still do a job for Armagh 
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Orchardman on July 19, 2012, 09:29:11 PM
Quote from: Ciarrai_thuaidh on July 19, 2012, 06:56:16 PM
Mick O'Connell played a few games for Valentia juniors a couple of years ago...he was 69 at the time I think! Still looked fairly fit aswell.

u serious? did he kick any scores
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: TacadoirArdMhacha on July 19, 2012, 09:39:01 PM
Martin McQuillan played in a B championship semi-final a couple of years back, 2009 I think. He would have been around 45 at the time.

Mattie Lennon looked in serious shape playing the recreational football earlier this year.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: haranguerer on July 19, 2012, 09:51:25 PM
Quote from: Syferus on July 19, 2012, 06:19:09 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on July 19, 2012, 05:46:46 PM
Quote from: Syferus on July 16, 2012, 12:27:12 AM
Ciaran McDonald is still going great guns for Crossmalina at 37, scored 9 points in the club championship two weeks ago. John O' really made a hash of that whole episode, Ciaran Mc is among the purest footballers to ever grace a GAA pitch and if you could have got him to buy into a Brian Dooher-type role he would still be a serious weapon for them.

Wtf???

It's not even a controversial statement. I'm sorry it put your nose out of joint.

Its just a really bizarre statement. As you say he is one of the purest footballers ever to grace a pitch, you seem to be suggesting its a pity he didnt buy into a workhorse role??! Who would want him to, and how would that have made him more effective? If ever there was a player who didnt suit a brian dooher type role its CMcD
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Syferus on July 19, 2012, 10:07:34 PM
I'm talking Brian Dooher in the last few years where he was a a deep-set link man with vertern leadership, not as a mop-up man. McD's vision as a passer would make him ideal for that sort of role, maybe what Paraig Joyce still offers Galway or what Frankie Dolan is doing for St. Brigids are better examples, classy footballers who have become real playmakers in their 30s.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Orchardman on July 19, 2012, 11:00:54 PM
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on July 19, 2012, 09:39:01 PM
Martin McQuillan played in a B championship semi-final a couple of years back, 2009 I think. He would have been around 45 at the time.

Mattie Lennon looked in serious shape playing the recreational football earlier this year.

when he was clady manager in around 2008 he ended up putting himself on in the junior champo final, phily loughran was sent off that day they they were beat by some other shite team
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: demusicman on July 20, 2012, 02:33:24 AM
Brendan Melia was sub goalie for Meath in centenary year 1984 when they won defeating Monaghan.
He recently played in goals  for Moynalvey against Carnaross.
Surely he qualifies as a special when he comes to an ex- county player still playing.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: rrhf on July 20, 2012, 08:45:40 AM
Must have been the centenary cup
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on July 20, 2012, 09:13:02 AM
Joe McNally played Senior football until he was 43, won a Junior D championship when he wasn't far off 50
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: rrhf on July 20, 2012, 10:58:05 AM
The maestro Mickey Harte himself played for Errigal reserves  till his mid late 40s Im sure. 
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: theticklemister on July 20, 2012, 01:32:52 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 09:13:02 AM
Joe McNally played Senior football until he was 43, won a Junior D championship when he wasn't far off 50

Heffo me oul mucker, how does a Junior D championship work? I know Dublin has more clubs than Derry, so is it the fourth teir of Junior football?
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on July 20, 2012, 01:48:57 PM
Quote from: theticklemister on July 20, 2012, 01:32:52 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 09:13:02 AM
Joe McNally played Senior football until he was 43, won a Junior D championship when he wasn't far off 50

Heffo me oul mucker, how does a Junior D championship work? I know Dublin has more clubs than Derry, so is it the fourth teir of Junior football?

In Dublin in Football we have Senior, Intermediate, Junior A/B/C/D & E championships.

If you play Senior one year and you want to play lower you have to apply to regrade but you'd rarely be allowed to drop two in one go.

The lower grades can be of a decent standard particularly with the culchie teams who drag fellas out of everywhere - there was a Sligo panellist playing Junior E one year under a different name!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: brokencrossbar1 on July 20, 2012, 01:57:23 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 01:48:57 PM
Quote from: theticklemister on July 20, 2012, 01:32:52 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 09:13:02 AM
Joe McNally played Senior football until he was 43, won a Junior D championship when he wasn't far off 50

Heffo me oul mucker, how does a Junior D championship work? I know Dublin has more clubs than Derry, so is it the fourth teir of Junior football?

In Dublin in Football we have Senior, Intermediate, Junior A/B/C/D & E championships.

If you play Senior one year and you want to play lower you have to apply to regrade but you'd rarely be allowed to drop two in one go.

The lower grades can be of a decent standard particularly with the culchie teams who drag fellas out of everywhere - there was a Sligo panellist playing Junior E one year under a different name!

I presume it works then that a team has to win its respective grade at junior before it can be "promoted"? 
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on July 20, 2012, 02:04:05 PM
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 20, 2012, 01:57:23 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 01:48:57 PM
Quote from: theticklemister on July 20, 2012, 01:32:52 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 09:13:02 AM
Joe McNally played Senior football until he was 43, won a Junior D championship when he wasn't far off 50

Heffo me oul mucker, how does a Junior D championship work? I know Dublin has more clubs than Derry, so is it the fourth teir of Junior football?

In Dublin in Football we have Senior, Intermediate, Junior A/B/C/D & E championships.

If you play Senior one year and you want to play lower you have to apply to regrade but you'd rarely be allowed to drop two in one go.

The lower grades can be of a decent standard particularly with the culchie teams who drag fellas out of everywhere - there was a Sligo panellist playing Junior E one year under a different name!

I presume it works then that a team has to win its respective grade at junior before it can be "promoted"?

99% of the time yes especially Senior/Intermediate/Junior A but in some cases you can apply to go up or drop down - e.g Some  of the massive teams like Na Fianna who have 100 teams and something like 70-odd minor players this year could enter a Junior E team next year and ask for their Junior D to go Junior C etc
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Bingo on July 20, 2012, 02:07:54 PM
Some clubs in Dublin have huge another of teams. Worked with a lad that played with one the Crokes junior teams, I would have known some people from the crokes and lads who played senior with them at the time from Monaghan. He'd not have a clue who or what I'd be talking about. He knew when his team was playing and enjoyed playing with them but that was as far as he got involved in the club and where his interested ended, which is fair enough and at least he was still playing.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on July 20, 2012, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: Bingo on July 20, 2012, 02:07:54 PM
Some clubs in Dublin have huge another of teams. Worked with a lad that played with one the Crokes junior teams, I would have known some people from the crokes and lads who played senior with them at the time from Monaghan. He'd not have a clue who or what I'd be talking about. He knew when his team was playing and enjoyed playing with them but that was as far as he got involved in the club and where his interested ended, which is fair enough and at least he was still playing.

Paraic McDonald??

Some clubs are massive and there can be a huge disconnect alright between members
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: haranguerer on July 20, 2012, 03:11:47 PM
Quote from: Syferus on July 19, 2012, 10:07:34 PM
I'm talking Brian Dooher in the last few years where he was a a deep-set link man with vertern leadership, not as a mop-up man. McD's vision as a passer would make him ideal for that sort of role, maybe what Paraig Joyce still offers Galway or what Frankie Dolan is doing for St. Brigids are better examples, classy footballers who have become real playmakers in their 30s.

Thats the role mcdonald already played. He definitely had plenty left in him. Dooher didnt really play that role, he was a workhorse until he required, making his longevity even more admirable
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Onion Bag on July 20, 2012, 03:39:19 PM
Tony Brown lined out last week at wing half back for Waterford hurlers at 39.

that is some feat, playing hurling at that level at that age
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: theticklemister on July 20, 2012, 04:01:12 PM
Anthony McGurk (Double All-Star winner with Derry at CHB and CF) came on at 41 in Lavey's All-Ireland winning club championship team in 1991.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Bingo on July 20, 2012, 04:34:38 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: Bingo on July 20, 2012, 02:07:54 PM
Some clubs in Dublin have huge another of teams. Worked with a lad that played with one the Crokes junior teams, I would have known some people from the crokes and lads who played senior with them at the time from Monaghan. He'd not have a clue who or what I'd be talking about. He knew when his team was playing and enjoyed playing with them but that was as far as he got involved in the club and where his interested ended, which is fair enough and at least he was still playing.

Paraic McDonald??

Some clubs are massive and there can be a huge disconnect alright between members

Yeah, Ducksy, a good Blayney Faughs man. Also Colm Flanagan was playing at the time, I'd have been sharing a flat with him at the time.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Gold on July 20, 2012, 11:22:48 PM
Quote from: Orchardman on July 19, 2012, 09:29:11 PM
Quote from: Ciarrai_thuaidh on July 19, 2012, 06:56:16 PM
Mick O'Connell played a few games for Valentia juniors a couple of years ago...he was 69 at the time I think! Still looked fairly fit aswell.

u serious? did he kick any scores

No way surely?!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Harold Disgracey on July 21, 2012, 01:10:30 AM
I remember Micko was in our club a couple of years ago and he had a photo with him of Mick O'Connell playing in a junior championship match at the age of 58. I had heard this before but this was the first time I saw photographic proof.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: T O Hare on July 21, 2012, 12:53:51 PM
Mickey "the legend" Linden played senior reserve two years ago aged 47 and was unstoppable as we won the championship.. His son on the squad as well..  He could be talked out of retirement in a few weeks as the USA has affected our reserve side for the championship.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: southdown on July 21, 2012, 01:02:05 PM
Is there footage going around of Linden playing a blinder in a reserve final not too long ago??
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Lar Naparka on July 21, 2012, 06:58:30 PM
Billy Fitzpatrick came on as a sub for Mayo in the drawn All Ireland semi against Dublin in 1985.  He clipped over a nice point also. He was 42 at the time.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Westside on July 21, 2012, 10:11:10 PM
Larry is still terrorising Div 2 defences in Cavan.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Celt_Man on July 22, 2012, 12:01:01 AM
Quote from: Westside on July 21, 2012, 10:11:10 PM
Larry is still terrorising Div 2 defences in Cavan.

Not anymore!!! Unless he dusts the boots off for a rattle at Shercock in the home of football next Sunday!!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: kuht on July 22, 2012, 08:02:35 PM
Maurice Fitz still at it at 43 ......some legend
(http://www.sportsfile.com/winshare/w540/Library/SF800/583869.jpg)
(http://www.sportsfile.com/winshare/w540/Library/SF800/583870.jpg)
(http://www.sportsfile.com/winshare/w540/Library/SF800/583871.jpg)
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Heshs Umpire on July 22, 2012, 08:26:59 PM
Former Laois and Leinster footballer Denis Lalor won a Division 5 league medal last week on his 45th birthday.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: theticklemister on July 23, 2012, 02:33:27 AM
Is that him playing against Dromaird Pearses????

WATCH OUT FOR DECLAN O SULLIVAN'S EXTENDED ARM OUR GREAT ONE!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: thejuice on July 23, 2012, 09:56:17 AM
(http://hoganstand.com/Common/NewGallery/B75B3-578.jpg)

Ollie Murphy made his Meath SHC debut at the ripe old age of 37 last week for Gaeil Colmcille. Starting them young in Meath now.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: orangeman on July 23, 2012, 10:03:15 AM
Quote from: thejuice on July 23, 2012, 09:56:17 AM
(http://hoganstand.com/Common/NewGallery/B75B3-578.jpg)

Ollie Murphy made his Meath SHC debut at the ripe old age of 37 last week for Gaeil Colmcille. Starting them young in Meath now.

Is there any truth that Seanie is looking a transfer to them ? Supposedly they've a right wee side and there's a chance of a medal.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Croí na hÉireann on July 27, 2012, 03:58:07 PM
Quote from: heffo on July 20, 2012, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: Bingo on July 20, 2012, 02:07:54 PM
Some clubs in Dublin have huge another of teams. Worked with a lad that played with one the Crokes junior teams, I would have known some people from the crokes and lads who played senior with them at the time from Monaghan. He'd not have a clue who or what I'd be talking about. He knew when his team was playing and enjoyed playing with them but that was as far as he got involved in the club and where his interested ended, which is fair enough and at least he was still playing.

Paraic McDonald??

Some clubs are massive and there can be a huge disconnect alright between members

True that. The amount of new faces I see each year is ridiculous. And if a fella steps up or down onto a team you mightn't see him for months.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: stew on July 28, 2012, 06:38:19 PM
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on July 19, 2012, 09:39:01 PM
Martin McQuillan played in a B championship semi-final a couple of years back, 2009 I think. He would have been around 45 at the time.

Mattie Lennon looked in serious shape playing the recreational football earlier this year.

I thought that wee fecker Lennon was from Middletown.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: stew on July 28, 2012, 06:41:50 PM
No longer playing but Peter McGinnity played club football well into his fifties back in the day, he was some player.

Maurice Fitz is one of the best players ever to grace a football pitch, he was sublime and got fecked over by Kerry, he should have play about five more years for them.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Derry Optimist on July 30, 2012, 05:49:08 PM
When it comes to longevity at playing club football, Down treble All Ireland  Senior medal winner Dan McCartan is hard to beat. First of all, along with his first cousin  the great Sean O'Neill, he played in sixteen Ulster senior finals, including the 1974 Ulster final replay against Donegal. During his career he played club football with Glenn, Tullylish and Carrryduff. At the age of 47, along with his son Mark,  he won a Down Junior championship medal in 1986. The long - serving Dan played his last club game for Carryduff in 1998, at the ripe young age of 59! Having been an outstanding handballer since his days in St Colman's College in Newry, he continued to play the small ball game all his life until he was  in his mid sixties. Furthermore, in 2004, just before his 65th birthday, and along with former Antrim star Gaelic footballer Des McNeill, he brought another All Ireland medal to his native county. That year they won the All Ireland Diamond Masters' doubles 40 x 20  handball final in Mullingar. So from the age of 12 when he started in St Colman's until he retired from handball at the age of 65 Dan McCartan had been a continuous, active participant in Gaelic Games of one code or both  for a remarkable,  successive 53 years. The modest Dan who has now retired from his dental practice is surely deserving of some individual award for outstanding service to Gaelic Games. The appropriate authorities should take note of this fantastic achievement.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Hardy on July 30, 2012, 06:51:40 PM
Great post, DO.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: 5 Sams on July 31, 2012, 11:25:03 PM
Quote from: Derry Optimist on July 30, 2012, 05:49:08 PM
When it comes to longevity at playing club football, Down treble All Ireland  Senior medal winner Dan McCartan is hard to beat. First of all, along with his first cousin  the great Sean O'Neill, he played in sixteen Ulster senior finals, including the 1974 Ulster final replay against Donegal. During his career he played club football with Glenn, Tullylish and Carrryduff. At the age of 47, along with his son Mark,  he won a Down Junior championship medal in 1986. The long - serving Dan played his last club game for Carryduff in 1998, at the ripe young age of 59! Having been an outstanding handballer since his days in St Colman's College in Newry, he continued to play the small ball game all his life until he was  in his mid sixties. Furthermore, in 2004, just before his 65th birthday, and along with former Antrim star Gaelic footballer Des McNeill, he brought another All Ireland medal to his native county. That year they won the All Ireland Diamond Masters' doubles 40 x 20  handball final in Mullingar. So from the age of 12 when he started in St Colman's until he retired from handball at the age of 65 Dan McCartan had been a continuous, active participant in Gaelic Games of one code or both  for a remarkable,  successive 53 years. The modest Dan who has now retired from his dental practice is surely deserving of some individual award for outstanding service to Gaelic Games. The appropriate authorities should take note of this fantastic achievement.

When I started playing senior football Dan was in goal for Carryduff and could still kick the ball a mile. PT Treacy was also playing for the duff then. What age are these two boys now??
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: RedandGreenSniper on July 31, 2012, 11:49:14 PM
Liam 'Stanley' Nyland who played with Mayo in the 1990s played with his club Davitts up until about three or four years ago. He wasn't far off fifty. That was his club's first team too, if I'm not mistaken.

Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 01, 2012, 04:20:47 PM
There should be master club hurling/football leagues going on. No reason why there can't be a 12 aside league for players in their 40th year and onwards. Recreational hurling and football games would be a great way of keeping ex seniors in the club and about the place. So great experience is lost once a player hangs up his boots. These players are invaluable to the younger lads coming through.

While not a million years younger than Seamus McGoran, he played county for Antrim for years before taking up with the Antrim masters team and played for the club reserves to a ripe old age (competitive age)

Recreational hurling and football games have taken place but usually they are one off tournaments
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: the Deel Rover on August 01, 2012, 04:25:43 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 01, 2012, 04:20:47 PM
There should be master club hurling/football leagues going on. No reason why there can't be a 12 aside league for players in their 40th year and onwards. Recreational hurling and football games would be a great way of keeping ex seniors in the club and about the place. So great experience is lost once a player hangs up his boots. These players are invaluable to the younger lads coming through.

While not a million years younger than Seamus McGoran, he played county for Antrim for years before taking up with the Antrim masters team and played for the club reserves to a ripe old age (competitive age)

Recreational hurling and football games have taken place but usually they are one off tournaments

Been saying that for years Milltown . I would love a game of Gaelic just for recreational purposes and a bit of craic and catching up with old friends however when you hit a certain age there is no games available. I play soccer on astroturf and there is a masters league however given a choice i love to play a game of football.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: neilthemac on August 01, 2012, 06:25:21 PM
Well the GAA abolished the County Masters teams - which was a disgrace

A club over 40s league would be a brilliant idea, hurling and football
You could easily play games of 11-a-side on a shortened pitch with modified rules.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 01, 2012, 10:29:39 PM
Quote from: neilthemac on August 01, 2012, 06:25:21 PM
Well the GAA abolished the County Masters teams - which was a disgrace

A club over 40s league would be a brilliant idea, hurling and football
You could easily play games of 11-a-side on a shortened pitch with modified rules.

What was the reason behind this? I was looking forward to playing in those games
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competetion so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 09:05:44 AM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competition so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons

Typical of Croke Park to let things lapse, any players I knew who played in these competitions enjoyed the craic, heading off to play very competitive games and they always enjoyed the craic afterwards. Many of the lads ended up playing Down Under in a compromised rules games against the Aussies.

A club league or mini league would be grand and easy to run. If you had ten teams with overaged players it could be run off over a couple of months.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Harold Disgracey on August 02, 2012, 10:32:27 AM
We have/had a bit of a recreational football league running in Armagh, largely organised by Diarmaid Marsden. All games that I've played in have been played in the right spirit and have been great craic.

We've been playing this for a few years now and it's a great way to get ex-players or those who never played competively for the club back involved. We even went over to Glasgow to play a game last year.

There are games to be played, if you want them. For example An Riocht organise a recreational tournament each year, this year's is on 1st September IIRC.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:35:37 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 09:05:44 AM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competition so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons

Typical of Croke Park to let things lapse, any players I knew who played in these competitions enjoyed the craic

The games weren't covered under the GAA insurance. It's all a bit of craic until someone suffers a serious injury then 'The GAA' are at fault again.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 10:44:34 AM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:35:37 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 09:05:44 AM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competition so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons

Typical of Croke Park to let things lapse, any players I knew who played in these competitions enjoyed the craic

The games weren't covered under the GAA insurance. It's all a bit of craic until someone suffers a serious injury then 'The GAA' are at fault again.

Clubs pay a fee for each team they place into a league/competition why can't this be the same, set up a league/competition, club pays the usual fee and away ya go. Members are paying for it anyways.

An under 14 can suffer a serious injury also but he's still covered
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:52:26 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 10:44:34 AM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:35:37 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 09:05:44 AM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competition so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons

Typical of Croke Park to let things lapse, any players I knew who played in these competitions enjoyed the craic

The games weren't covered under the GAA insurance. It's all a bit of craic until someone suffers a serious injury then 'The GAA' are at fault again.

Clubs pay a fee for each team they place into a league/competition why can't this be the same, set up a league/competition, club pays the usual fee and away ya go. Members are paying for it anyways.

An under 14 can suffer a serious injury also but he's still covered

There were insurance issues. The GAA insurance scheme can only pay out what it takes in. It costs more to insurance a +40 year old man than it does an U14 player.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: brokencrossbar1 on August 02, 2012, 10:58:19 AM
I can't say for other counties but I know there is a recreational program in Armagh and I also think it Monaghan. It is similar to Tag rugby with only minimal contact allowed, subject to the refs discretion :P. It is generally minimum 12 aside and covers 35's to 50's though I know a few lads on the upper range faking their DOB! It should be more organised across the boards and have it like Tag where you haved mixed teams with womes scores counting double!
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Leonardo on August 02, 2012, 11:23:05 AM
There were quite a few games last year in Down - An Riocht, Loughinisland, Clonduff and Carrickcruppin????, as well as a number of 7 a side tournaments
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 11:27:15 AM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:52:26 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 10:44:34 AM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 10:35:37 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 09:05:44 AM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 06:33:09 AM
Quote from: Puckoon on August 02, 2012, 12:16:13 AM
I'm open to correction but I think the Masters went the way of the dodo partly due to insurance costs or concerns?

Yeah your right puck the gaa didn't recognise the competition so therefore the games couldn't be played for insurance reasons

Typical of Croke Park to let things lapse, any players I knew who played in these competitions enjoyed the craic

The games weren't covered under the GAA insurance. It's all a bit of craic until someone suffers a serious injury then 'The GAA' are at fault again.

Clubs pay a fee for each team they place into a league/competition why can't this be the same, set up a league/competition, club pays the usual fee and away ya go. Members are paying for it anyways.

An under 14 can suffer a serious injury also but he's still covered

There were insurance issues. The GAA insurance scheme can only pay out what it takes in. It costs more to insurance a +40 year old man than it does an U14 player.

I'm with you regarding the insurance being more expensive but if they are paying for it through their membership then that should be ok?

Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on August 02, 2012, 10:58:19 AM
I can't say for other counties but I know there is a recreational program in Armagh and I also think it Monaghan. It is similar to Tag rugby with only minimal contact allowed, subject to the refs discretion :P. It is generally minimum 12 aside and covers 35's to 50's though I know a few lads on the upper range faking their DOB! It should be more organised across the boards and have it like Tag where you haved mixed teams with womes scores counting double!

Is it recognised through official channels?
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 11:32:22 AM
The grade isn't recognised centrally so an individual CCC cant recognise it as it could bankrupt the GAA insurance scheme.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: brokencrossbar1 on August 02, 2012, 11:40:53 AM
I'm not sure how recognised it is but it is a growing competition.  I would suggest you get a few of the heads in ST Galls and get them to see if they can do similar.  Over 35 and not fit/registered to play with another team. Each man throws in a few pound a game for sandwiches and insurance. 
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on August 02, 2012, 11:40:53 AM
I'm not sure how recognised it is but it is a growing competition.  I would suggest you get a few of the heads in ST Galls and get them to see if they can do similar.  Over 35 and not fit/registered to play with another team. Each man throws in a few pound a game for sandwiches and insurance.

At club level it's growing fast - in my experience though the teams organise private insurance for themselves
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 11:51:13 AM
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on August 02, 2012, 11:40:53 AM
I'm not sure how recognised it is but it is a growing competition.  I would suggest you get a few of the heads in ST Galls and get them to see if they can do similar.  Over 35 and not fit/registered to play with another team. Each man throws in a few pound a game for sandwiches and insurance.

Yeah a 10 team league would be plenty in fairness, but again these things need to go through proper channels. Development officers like Mardsen have done this before and like i said already I've played in a couple of 10 a side tournaments, great craic but left me wanting more.

Though I'm still playing away with the junior hurling team I wouldn't mind playing away till I croak with the old boys
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Marsden works for the Ulster Council, not Armagh so I am assuming the recreational stuff comes under their remit.

Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Harold Disgracey on August 02, 2012, 12:50:57 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Marsden works for the Ulster Council, not Armagh so I am assuming the recreational stuff comes under their remit.

Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.

That's right, Marsden organised the games as part of his role with the Ulster Council. I think his role has now changed and it'll be down to each club to organise their own games.

The insurance issue has cropped up with some clubs, but if the game is played properly there should be no problems.

We played the Clans last month, the game was good craic and played in the right spirit. The Clans had a 16 y.o. in nets for them & he was superb, his father was playing outfield for them. As they were short on numbers we loaned them a few players to make up the numbers. To my eternal regret I played one half for them and scored a goal! 

That game also marked the return in red & white for Andrew McCann, which was great to see.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: thewobbler on August 02, 2012, 01:14:52 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Marsden works for the Ulster Council, not Armagh so I am assuming the recreational stuff comes under their remit.

Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.
When a guy snaps a cruciate on a GAA field and misses a couple of months work, it's only natural they'll be looking for compensation /options from their club and the GAA.

When a guy of 38 snaps his cruciate on a GAA field, it's only natural that the club won't want to get involved in any scheme to remunerate him directly. There's no return, unless he's a club die hard.

So insurance is the only way out. Horrible fact of life. But walk around a GAA changing room and ask the older fellas if they're insured, and the younger fellas the same question, the first group will know the answer.


Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 01:42:17 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.

yeah sure its all a bit of craic until a guy in his mid-40's with a big mortgage and three kids does his cruciate and you start discussing who's going to pay his mortgage and put food on his table.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: the Deel Rover on August 02, 2012, 01:44:56 PM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 01:42:17 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.

yeah sure its all a bit of craic until a guy in his mid-40's with a big mortgage and three kids does his cruciate and you start discussing who's going to pay his mortgage and put food on his table.

I know what your saying Heffo . But how does the Insurance work when lads play on Astoturf what happens if they do their Cruciate while playing there ?
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 02:13:37 PM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 01:42:17 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.

yeah sure its all a bit of craic until a guy in his mid-40's with a big mortgage and three kids does his cruciate and you start discussing who's going to pay his mortgage and put food on his table.

For the insurance side of things all players should be paying club membership, of which its part insurance, If a 40 year old is worried about losing his job through injury then take up chess FFS. We are talking about lads who want to play beyond the age where you are forced to retire due to some wee fecker who stole your position !! (I'm not bitter :o)
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Canalman on August 02, 2012, 02:21:10 PM
 I heard a different slant as to why the intercounty over 40s was done away with. Seemingly it was being treated very very seriously in some counties (possibly far too seriously) and the GAA decided to put a stop to it with a view to a more recreational approach/ alternative which afaik never came about.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: tbrick18 on August 02, 2012, 02:25:37 PM
Eamon Burns won an AI with Derry in 93 and was still playing senior club football for Ballinascreen last year. Last time I was talking to him he said he was hoping to play this year too. I've only managed to get to a couple of games this year and he wasnt playing in either so I'm not sure if he's still turning out. But he'd be 40-41 I think.
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: heffo on August 02, 2012, 02:28:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 02, 2012, 02:13:37 PM
Quote from: heffo on August 02, 2012, 01:42:17 PM
Quote from: fitzroyalty on August 02, 2012, 11:59:44 AM
Ridiculous that insurance is being used as an excuse.

yeah sure its all a bit of craic until a guy in his mid-40's with a big mortgage and three kids does his cruciate and you start discussing who's going to pay his mortgage and put food on his table.

For the insurance side of things all players should be paying club membership, of which its part insurance, If a 40 year old is worried about losing his job through injury then take up chess FFS. We are talking about lads who want to play beyond the age where you are forced to retire due to some wee fecker who stole your position !! (I'm not bitter :o)


As I've already said GAA insurance does not cover these games.

Club membership does not cover it unless some club with very deep pockets takes out private insurance for it's members.

Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Celt_Man on August 02, 2012, 05:45:13 PM
Quote from: Canalman on August 02, 2012, 02:21:10 PM
I heard a different slant as to why the intercounty over 40s was done away with. Seemingly it was being treated very very seriously in some counties (possibly far too seriously) and the GAA decided to put a stop to it with a view to a more recreational approach/ alternative which afaik never came about.

That's what I remember about it too . 90% sure this was the reason
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Donnellys Hollow on September 20, 2012, 10:45:45 PM
52 year old former Kildare player Liam Miley kicked five points including a last minute winner for St Laurences against Sarsfields in the Kildare Reserve C Championship Final in Kilcullen last Saturday. Liam played in the 1982 Senior Championship Final which was also against Sarsfields. On that occasion he played against the late Christy Sweeney. Christy's son Cian lined out against Liam last Saturday.

http://www.leinsterleader.ie/sport/gaelic-games/long-wait-finally-over-for-st-laurence-s-veteran-liam-miley-1-4281927 (http://www.leinsterleader.ie/sport/gaelic-games/long-wait-finally-over-for-st-laurence-s-veteran-liam-miley-1-4281927)
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Hoof Hearted on September 20, 2012, 10:49:32 PM
Quote from: Donnellys Hollow on September 20, 2012, 10:45:45 PM
52 year old former Kildare player Liam Miley kicked five points including a last minute winner for St Laurences against Sarsfields in the Kildare Reserve C Championship Final in Kilcullen last Saturday. Liam played in the 1982 Senior Championship Final which was also against Sarsfields. On that occasion he played against the late Christy Sweeney. Christy's son Cian lined out against Liam last Saturday.

http://www.leinsterleader.ie/sport/gaelic-games/long-wait-finally-over-for-st-laurence-s-veteran-liam-miley-1-4281927 (http://www.leinsterleader.ie/sport/gaelic-games/long-wait-finally-over-for-st-laurence-s-veteran-liam-miley-1-4281927)

well done Donnellys Holllow, fair play to ye  ;)
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: Blowitupref on September 22, 2019, 12:41:35 PM
http://www.donegalsporthub.com/declan-bonner-plays-as-na-rossa-reach-junior-quarter-finals/
Title: Re: Ex-County players still playing club football at a brave oul age
Post by: BallyroanAbu on September 22, 2019, 01:36:15 PM
There is no such thing as Player Insurance something very similar operates but it's not Insurance, called the Player Injury Fund.

Secondly Private Medical Insurance supersedes Player Injury Fund