P J Ward R I P

It is with deep regret that we advise of the passing of former Geraldines player and administrator P. J. Ward aged 74 .

A member of a well known sporting family from Clermont, P. J. played for many years for the Gers having graduated through the underage ranks. P. J. was a very solid and mobile corner back who gave his all whenever he pulled on the green jersey. A man of quiet disposition he played a very prominent role in the Gers 1966 Junior Championship success which brought the Club back to the Senior Ranks after a long absence. He went on the captain the Gers in the 1969 Senior Championship Final in which they lost to an all-conquering Newtown Blues team that won seven county titles in that decade.

P. J. also filled the role of Club secretary for a number of years and made a very significant contribution to the Gers at committee level. He was also very well known as a high class cross country runner under the N. A. C. A. banner and was All-Ireland senior mens champion , going on to represent Ireland at international level. Despite moving to live in Dublin in the early 80’s P.J. kept a close eye on the progress of the Geraldines and he was a very regular attendee at inter county matches in Croke Park with his brother Dessie.

Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam .