Fr Michael had a lifelong association with the Tralee Club. In his younger days, he played both hurling and football but his playing career ended when he entered Maynooth to join the priesthood
Fr Michael became President of the Austin Stacks Club in 1943 and served in that role until his death in 2010. Surely a record?
Following his ordination for the Kerry Diocese in 1945, Fr Michael served in a number Kerry parishes down through the years including Waterville and Listowel. In 1975 he was appointed as Parish Priest of Glenbeigh before moving to Ballybunion six years later. He served in the seaside resort for a number of years prior to his retirement.
An avid GAA follower all his life, Fr Michael doesn’t attend matches now on a regular basis but he still follows the fortunes of the Black and Amber and Kerry religiously.
It was particularly joyous for Fr Michael that there were strong Austin Stacks connections with last year’s Kerry All-Ireland winning side in the shape of Kieran Donaghy, and selector Ger O’Keeffe, whose careers Fr Michael helped nurture.
Indeed, we heard from very reliable sources that Fr Michael rang Kieran a few days before the All-Ireland final to wish him well and give him some sound advice.
Like many Rock Street men, Fr Michael also enjoyed a lifelong interest in Greyhounds. He has bred many winners in both Coursing and the Track. One of his dogs, ‘On the Forty’ was named after former legendary Austin Stacks footballer Martin ‘Bracker’ O’Regan.
May he Rest in Peace.