‘It shows how much people miss him’
SMALL MIKE’S ALL-IRELAND BLITZ ATTRACTS OVER 30 TEAMS RAISING VITAL FUNDS FOR LOCAL CAUSES IN THE PROCESS
IT was the kind of gathering the late Mike Tangney would have been proud of as Beaufort GAA Club hosted a very special sevena-side football blitz last weekend. Mike’s many friends and well-wishers ensured it was an extra special occasion for the Tangney family as the money raised from the blitz will go to three worthy charities.
Mike - or ‘Small Mike’ as he was better known locally - passed away in November 2017. He loved the GAA and the whole atmosphere surrounding All-Ireland final weekend. This is the chief reason why Mike’s family decided that September would be the most fitting month to remember him.
“He was mad about football. He loved the whole scramble for tickets and excitement of All-Ireland week. He was the kind of person who would give another person his ticket if he thought they wanted it more than him,” said Mike’s sister, Siobhan.
The action started at 11am on Saturday as 31 teams from Kerry and Cork took part. Scores of volunteers, and even referees, also gave their time to ensure the day would be a seamless one.
The teams were marched onto the field by a lone piper for the final as over 200 people stayed back to watch it and enjoy refreshments at The Inn Between Bar afterwards. A dance was also held in Kate Kearney’s Cottage rounding off a memorable weekend. Mike’s parents, Michael and Eileen, attended the football blitz and they took strength from the show of affection shown to their son.
“It was an emotional day. My parents were overwhelmed by the people that turned out. It was lovely for them, and for us, as it showed how much time people had for him and how much they miss him. We haven’t a final figure yet, but people have been so generous. The day had a lovely atmosphere and in many ways it felt like All-Ireland day for us,” said Siobhan.
Proceeds from the tournament will go to Autism Kerry, the GA Ward and CF Unit at CUH.