Dr Paddy O’Donoghue Memorial Cup
THE Dr O’Donoghue Cup, presented annually to the winners of the East Kerry Senior Football Championship, honours the late Dr. Paddy O’ Donoghue who gave outstanding service to the G.A.A. both as a player and an administrator. President of the East Kerry Board from 1935 until his untimely death on January 4th 1948 at the age of 47 years, he practiced as a medical doctor in Killarney. He won the affection of all sections of the community and was known to give his services free of charge to G.A.A. players.
At the annual convention of the East Kerry Board on 24th January 1954, a motion from St Joseph’s, Rathmore, ‘ that a perpetual cup be awarded to the winners of the senior championship’ was referred to the first meeting of the incoming Board. Consequently, together with the East Kerry Board, and in agreement with Dr O’Donoghue’s family, it was decided to purchase a silver cup. Danny Jim O’Donoghue, on behalf of the memorial committee, purchased the cup (in Cork) and presented it to the East Kerry Board. It is highly treasured by all who win the title.
Appropriately, the first winners in 1954 were Dr O’Donoghue’s old club Killarney Legion when the competition was played in league format. In 1966 the competition format changed to today’s knockout, championship format. The Cup carries the complete record of all winners from 1954, to date. Current 3 in a row County Senior Champions, Dr Crokes, top the Dr O’Donoghue Cup roll of honour, having won 29 titles.
The high esteem in which this championship is held, is reflected with the presentation of East Kerry All Star Awards, at a Gala Banquet in the Gleneagle Hotel annually, commencing in 2010. A man of the match award is presented, starting at quarter final stage, sponsored by The Aquila Club. Jimmy O’Brien kindly presents a special award to the man of the match in the Final every year. Last years recipient was James O’Donoghue (Killarney Legion). East Kerry Board greatly appreciate these sponsorships and the sponsorship from the Aquila Club and Dr O’Donoghues family, for this prestigious competition - the Dr O’Donoghue Cup East Kerry Senior Championship. Rathmore are the current, and 4 in a row, title holders (2014 to 2017). We look forward to more great matches in this years championship, no doubt providing many talking points. 1966; 1969;
1971; 1972; 1974; 1975; 1977; 1985; 1987; 1989 Kilcummin: (1) 1973 Currow: (1) 1998 Listry: (1) 1970