The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
TWO former GAA greats, Offaly footballer Tony McTague and Limerick hurler Eamon Cregan, were inducted into the new Hall of Fame at the GAA Museum at Croke Park this week. The Hall of Fame was opened as part of the museum’s ongoing refurbishment.
All 30 players from the Teams of the Millennium were also honoured by their inclusion in the exhibit.
Limerick’s Eamon Cregan enjoyed a 19-year inter-county hurling career, winning practically every hurling honour at senior level, four Munster championships, a National Hurling League, an Oireachtas medal, four Railway Cups and three All-Star awards. He starred on the Limerick team that won the All-Ireland Senior Championship in 1973, Limerick’s first since 1940. During the game, Eamon was switched from his usual forward position to centre-back, a move that many regard as vital in Limerick’s victory.
Following his retirement, he went on to coach and manage a number of teams, leading Offaly to All-Ireland honours. He served as Clare U-21 manager and as Clare senior manager for a number of years.
Offaly’s Tony McTague won back-to-back All-Ireland titles with the Faithful County in 1971 and as captain in 1972. Tony was renowned for his remarkable accuracy from both play and frees. Tony enjoyed a 10-year senior inter-county career with Offaly and was named on the first two All-Star teams in 1971 and 1972.
Uachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Liam Ó Néill paid tribute to both players on being named on the prestigious list, which honours their massive contribution to the GAA.
“Former players have a special place in the history of the GAA and nowhere is this captured better than in the GAA Museum, where their achievements are highlighted and revered,” according to the president.
“This new facility will serve as a permanent reminder to the greatness of the players who adorned our game at the highest level.
“It is important that these players are remembered not only by those who were lucky enough to see them but crucially by those who did not have that privilege,” he added.
