Michael Smith R.I.P.

It was with great sadness that members of Dunsany GAA Club learned of the passing on Wednesday morning of one of our Honorary Presidents, Michael Smith.

A legendary figure in the Club, Michael served in a variety of roles including as Chairperson, but it was his many years in the dual role of Treasurer and Groundsman that his contribution will be best remembered.

Michael was an outstanding young footballer and, in 1962, the year prior to the formation of Dunsany GAA Club, he played for the Kildare minors, against Meath, in the Leinster Championship. He was attending the Army Apprentice School in Naas at the time and his performances for the school team had caught the attention of the Kildare selectors.

In the following year, he made his own piece of history when he became the first Dunsany player to wear the Meath jersey against Dublin in the Minor Championship and he was centre-half-forward on the first Dunsany team to play in the Championship against Dunshaughlin in Skryne on May 26th, 1963. He was also selected on the Meath Junior team.

Michael was the Dunsany captain in 1964 but a spell with the Army in Cyprus saw him miss the 1965 Championship. A promising playing career came to a premature end in 1968 when he sustained a serious knee injury in a league game against Ratoath.

He served as Club Chairperson in 1973, ’74 and ’75 before becoming Treasurer in 1976, a role he held for over 30 years. But it was in his role as groundsman that he extracted most pride and satisfaction.

He looked after the pitch and the surrounding area with a great sense of pride, and he was always available for duty in any role not only on matchdays but on all occasions.

Michael’s contribution to the survival and current well-being of the club was unique in terms of its quality and extent.

Dunsany GAA Club extends its deepest sympathy to Ann, Brian, and Grainne and to David, Noel and Dermot as well as to the extended Smyth family.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis

https://rip.ie/death…/michael-smith-drumree-meath/480376