Mayo legend in Kerry GAA laid to rest this weekend

VINCENT Linnane was a proud Mayo man who made his mark in the heart of the GAA in Co. Kerry.

Many tributes have been paid to the Kiltimagh native, kitman for the county senior team, in the days since his sudden passing this week.

Vincent was a native of Treenfoughnane, and was a regular visitor to Kiltimagh. He was for many years both caretaker at Austin Stack Park in Tralee and kitman for the county's senior team.

Writing on the Kerry GAA website, Tim Murphy, cathaoirleach, Coiste Co. Chiarraí CLG, described Vincent as a 'legendary figure' whose personality transcended age groups, and he was loved by players and management alike.

Kerry senior team manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice paid tribute: “He was a huge part of our set-up. He has been an incredible servant to Kerry both in his role as caretaker of Austin Stack Park and as our kitman. He took ferocious pride in his work and always wanted to make sure the players were happy and wanted for nothing. His attention to detail was incredible.

“He was the heart and soul of Austin Stack Park and loved working there. He really enjoyed the reopening last year. I asked him to present the jerseys to the players and to say a few words before that league game against Donegal. I knew what it would mean to him.

“I also knew that because of the esteem that the players held him in they would want to win the first game there for Vince, which they duly did.

Vincent will be laid to rest on Saturday in Rahela Cemetery following Requiem Mass in Ballyduff Church.

He is survived by his wife Noreen, sons Jerry and Vincent, daughters Joanne, Noreen, Patricia, Angela and Philomena, sisters Pauline, Marie and Bridie, brothers Joe and Michael, extended family and friends.