40th Anniversary Reunion of Nurney GAA’s Historic 1984 Championship Team
Nurney GAA celebrated the 40th anniversary of their 1984 Junior B and Jack Higgins Cup championship team at Martin’s of Kildoon. The reunion featured players and officials who shared memories of their accomplishments. Club Chairman Seamus Deering welcomed attendees and acknowledged those who contributed but have since passed away.
Kildare GAA Chairman Mick Gorman was a special guest. He highlighted the importance of the 1984 victory, noting it was Nurney’s first adult championship win. Gorman thanked the club for its support to the County Board and presented mementos to those involved in the championship.
The 1984 team included: Syl Merrins (Captain), Brendan Stynes (Vice-Captain), Brendan Higginbotham, Conleth Stynes, D.J. Lawless, Eddie Molloy, Jimmy Lawless, Jimmy Merrins, John Conway, John Deering, John Miller, Ger Molloy, Martin Conway, Noel Stynes, Ollie Burke, Paddy Conway, Pat Burke, Pat Deering, Pat Smullen, Pat Stynes, Paud Sexton, Seamus Deering, Tom Sexton, Billy Whelan, Gerry Carroll, David Callan, and the management team of Liam Gleeson (Manager) and selectors Tom Kelly, P.J. Byrne, and Aidan Sexton.
What were some key highlights from the Nurney GAA 40th anniversary celebration event?
nurney GAA Celebrates 40 Years Since Historic 1984 Championship Victory: An Interview with Club Chairman Seamus Deering
Nurney, Kildare – The atmosphere was electric at Martin’s of Kildoon as Nurney GAA celebrated the 40th anniversary of their illustrious 1984 Junior B and Jack Higgins Cup championship team. We caught up with Club Chairman Seamus Deering to reminisce about the event and the impact of that pivotal year in the club’s history.
Q: Seamus, could you share your feelings about the reunion and its meaning to the club?
Seamus Deering: Absolutely! It was a truly special night for the club and for everyone involved. Celebrating 40 years since we won our first adult championship is monumental. It’s not just about the trophies but the memories and friendships forged along the way. It was heartening to see so many former players and officials come together to relive those moments.
Q: You mentioned the importance of remembering those who contributed but have as passed away. How do you feel their legacy lives on in the club?
Seamus Deering: The history of Nurney GAA is built on the shoulders of many. Acknowledging those who are no longer with us is crucial. Their dedication and passion set the foundation for the club we have today.We honor their legacy by continuing to foster a sense of community and commitment to the sport, ensuring their contributions are never forgotten.
Q: Kildare GAA Chairman Mick Gorman was a special guest at the reunion. What kind of impact did his presence have on the evening?
Seamus Deering: Mick brought a wealth of knowledge and recognition to our event. His remarks about the 1984 victory as our first adult championship win resonated deeply. His appreciation for our support to the County Board reminded everyone that our club plays a vital role in the broader GAA community. Presenting mementos to the players was a beautiful gesture that truly enhanced the atmosphere of the night.
Q: The 1984 team faced several challenges before claiming their first championship. What do you believe was the turning point for the team?
seamus deering: the journey to that championship was filled with trials; reaching seven semi-finals and three finals from 1978 to 1984 speaks to the determination of that group. I believe the turning point was our mindset in 1984. There was a sense of belief and unity, and when we defeated straffan in the final match with a score of 1-12 to 0-5, it was clear that the team was ready to seize the moment. Their victory in the Jack Higgins replay solidified that achievement.
Q: what do you envision for Nurney GAA in the future?
Seamus Deering: Looking forward, I hope to see our club continue to grow both on and off the field. The camaraderie displayed during our anniversary is what we need to cultivate among current and future generations. We aim to keep nurturing young talent and fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our club and community. We owe it to the legends of the ’84 team to continue striving for success.
As the night concluded, the camaraderie and nostalgia showcased the enduring spirit of Nurney GAA, a testament to the club’s rich history and bright future.
Before their success in 1984, Nurney reached seven championship semi-finals and three finals between 1978 and 1984. In 1984, they defeated Straffan 1-12 to 0-5 in the Championship and Clougherinko 2-8 to 1-7 in the Jack Higgins replay. The night ended on a positive note, filled with nostalgia and camaraderie among the participants.