Fr. Brian Kelly

When football in Glenbeigh is discussed Father Brian Kelly's name and his involvement with the club immediately comes to mind. It can honestly be said that due to his dedication and interest that Glenbeigh G.A.A is in such a healthy state.

He arrived as curate in Glenbeigh in 1953. That year his brother Sean won the All-Ireland at full forward on the Kerry team that beat Armagh. Football in Glenbeigh was at a low ebb and Fr. Kelly was asked by Elsie O'Sullivan to attend the Club A.G.M. He agreed and the rest is history. In 1953 football was played in Dan Murphy's field and the team played only one game. By 1954 a parish league was formed. Taking part were Caragh Bridge, The Village and Mountain Stage with Caragh Bridge emerging as winners.

From 1955 to 1970 Fr. Kelly trained the Glenbeigh team even though he left in 1963. He became Chairman of the club in 1956, the year Glenbeigh won the Mid Kerry Championship for the second time. The same year he became Chairman of the Mid Kerry board, a position he held until 1969.

Fr. Kelly was also heavily involved with his native parish, Kilcummin. He returned to Glenbeigh in 1981 and trained the team for a spell in the early eighties. He was one of the driving forces behind the development of the new sportsfield which opened on 3 August 1986. His involvement with the Glenbeigh club continued until his retirement in July 1999.

Fr. Kelly's dedication and commitment to the G.A.A in Glenbeigh was incredible. Words are inadequate to describe his contribution to Glenbeigh.

Go maire se i bhfadchun toradh a chiud oibre a fheiceal