Gaelic Games:GAA president Liam O'Neill has led the tributes to former Dublin player and manager Kevin Heffernan, who passed away today at the age of 83 following a long illness.
In a statement O’Neill said: “Kevin Heffernan had an incalculable impact not only on Gaelic Games in the capital but nationally, helping as he did to forge one of the defining rivalries of the Association while at the same time assisting in the reinvigoration of the GAA scene in Dublin.
“The ‘Dubs’ as we know them came into being during his era as he restored success to his native county and a pride in the team that was built on the back of the selection of Dublin born players.
“He was one of the most charismatic and popular figures the Association has ever produced and was at the same time an immensely modest man.
“I would count myself – like countless others – extremely fortunate to have met him on occasions down through the years.
“On behalf of the Association I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Mary, daughter Orla, wider family and large circle of friends and admirers.”
Solas na bhFlaitheas ar a anam uasal.
Dublin County Board secretary John Costello extended his sympathies to Heffernan’s family on behalf of all associated with the game in the county.
“Kevin Heffernan was ahead of his times as a player, a manager and an administrator. He revolutionised Gaelic Football in both how players and teams prepared and operated and also in terms of the philosophy and psychology of our national games,” said Costello.
“For his unparalleled devotion and contribution to Gaelic Football and Hurling the Association in Dublin will be forever indebted to him. So too is Irish society for lifting the awareness of Gaelic games, putting it on a revered pedestal, particularly at a juncture in time when participation in Gaelic games in the capital was waning.”