A player, manager and coach

A tribute to Larry Doyle by Diarmuid Devereux

The wider GAA community was deeply saddened at the passing of Larry Doyle. His many GAA friends will recollect a man whose free time over six decades was dominated as a player, manager, coach, referee and administrator at club and county level. Larry was the living embodiment of the traditional GAA member.

His selfless contribution to Réalt na Mara at all levels is his enduring sporting legacy, and which is clearly visible in the outstanding facilities which he, and fellow club workers, have put in place. He also made a significant contribution at county level with a distinguished record, especially at minor hurling and football level and the Leinster intermediate hurling champions of 2014.

The bearer of a determined and competitive personality he regularly drew the ire of referees, opposition players and committees. However once the battle was over Larry would dust himself down and move onwards. With Larry, reconciliation post any sporting event was simply a handshake away.

A moment of huge pride for him, and the Doyle family, was the County Board decision to site the official GAA 1916 commemoration plaque at the resting site of former county chairman, patriot and Minister, Sean Ethingham in Ardamine cemetery. Despite his illness he, and his young grandson, proudly unveiled the plaque. His bearing and emotion spoke volumes. Pride in family, club and local community defined him and he has now passed that torch on to his beloved children and grandchildren. It could not be in better hands.

May he rest in peace.