New book called 'The Botheen Men' tells the story of Clonoulty-Rossmore GAA club

A huge crowd was in attendance for the launch of Volume 1 of Clonoulty-Rossmore’s GAA story which took place in the clubhouse at the Dillon Quirke GAA grounds on Sunday last (16 December).

Written by William Ryan (King), “The Botheen Men - Gaelic Games in Clonoulty & Rossmore” chronicles the history of the West Tipperary club from 1884 to 1961.

It recounts the deeds of the original “botheen men” who won the second ever Tipperary Senior Hurling County Final in 1888 before going on to document the club’s time in Mid Tipperary which culminated in a divisional title in 1927 followed by an infamous County Final appearance the following year. 

Clonoulty and Rosmore were enthusiastic backers of the new West Division which was established in 1930, and won the first four West senior hurling titles.  

It would be 18 years before they secured their fifth senior divisional title in 1951 before losing to Holycross in the County Final. Two survivors from that campaign, 73 years ago, were in attendance, much to the delight and pride of those present.  

Jimmy Davern, 94, and Fr Paddy Ryan (Simon), 93, along with their family members, were warmly greeted by well-wishers who all recognised the significance of their presence.

Also in attendance was Jim Brennan, son of Tony Brennan, and Tony’s incredible accomplishments for club and county are extensively documented throughout the publication.

Neilly Ahearn, 90, of Glenough recalled cycling to Thurles for the 1951 County Final and told the audience a story of how the great John Doyle called out for an overcoat during the game as he had so little to do. It would be 1989 before the West men gained revenge! 

Clonoulty-Rossmore’s club chairman (pro-tem) and new West Board chairman Andrew Fryday welcomed the crowd before inviting David Ryan (Hanna) to address them.

David spoke about his own family’s passion for Clonoulty and Rossmore before issuing a rallying cry to the club to redouble their efforts in bringing well-coached players through to adult level. 

Next up was the author Will Ryan who brought the crowd on a whistle-stop tour of the club’s history.  His speech was complimented by Padraig Coen’s beautiful rendition of “The West’s Awake” on the whistle. 

The author described how it was an honour to play his part in recording the history of a club he loved while expressing his pride in documenting the stories and deeds of the older generation who generously shared stories with him throughout his two year research. He received a standing ovation at the conclusion of his remarks. 

One of those men who shared stories from the past was Fr Tom Ryan, formerly of Knockbawn, who was the final guest speaker and who was tasked with presenting the book to the club on the author’s behalf.

Fr Tom won two Harty Cup Medals with Thurles CBS and played in the 1950 All-Ireland Minor Hurling Final against Kilkenny.  The same day, Tony Brennan secured the third of his four Celtic crosses. 

Andrew Fryday, only the fourth man from the club to become West chairman, concluded the formalities by inviting all gathered for refreshments kindly prepared by club members. A wonderful atmosphere ensued where old friends reacquainted over a cup of tea while younger members ate their fill of the treats on offer.    

“The Botheen Men” is a beautifully produced hardback publication featuring an original and intriguing painting on its cover by local artist Alan O’Dwyer. 

Conor Hammersley, currently living in America, provides a thought-provoking foreword which whets the appetite for the ensuing chapters. The book costs €30 and is available from local shops in Clonoulty and Rossmore, and from Bookworm in Thurles.