A legend who’s sorely missed

ONE of Callinafercy’s best known players Tom Johnson sadly passed away at the age of 54 back in 2012. He was a real legend who had a great passion for sport and his sad passing at such a young age touched the hearts of everyone that knew him.

I fondly remember the many great games Asdee Rovers played on his family farm in Killorglin, which was Callinafercy’s home ground at that time.

Tom was a great player who ruled the roost for his side at centre-back or at midfield and made a habit of coming upfield for corner kicks and free kicks and frequently scored crucial goals that won big games.

While he was fiercely competitive on the field of play he was a great sportsman who loved to have a bit of a laugh and a bit of banter about a game when it was over. He had a great sense of humour and wit and always raised a smile from anyone he met.

He was a member of the Callinafercy side that won the league and cup double in 1979 and also played on the team that won the Greyhound Bar Cup again in 1986/87. He also turned in some great performances with the Kerry Oscar Traynor Cup side. He was one of the best players to come out of the county and was an influential leader of his club for many years.

Tom will always be fondly remembered not only by his family and friends but also by anyone who were fortunate to have known him. While everyone who knew him will miss him greatly, he has left a rich legacy of fond and treasured behind which will be talked about for generations to come in the realms of Kerry soccer.