Connemara GAA
Old black-and-white photograph of a rugby team, in two rows, in striped jerseys Two old photographs side by side: a team of men in waistcoats and caps, and three young men in suits Collage of old team photographs, including Clifden 1977, Inishbofin v St Vincent's of Dublin, and the St Cáillín's (Ballyconneely) hurling team

A Brief Introduction to the Late Jackie Salmon

A Brief Introduction to the late Jackie Salmon
The Connemara GAA legend Jackie Salmon was born in Cloonluane, Renvyle in the 1930s. He was born into a passionate GAA family with his father Stevie prominent in the GAA in Connemara in the 30s and 40s. Jackie like multitudes emigrated at a young age, in his case to England first and later New York so he only played football primarily at under age before emigration.

He became very prominent in New York as a player and administrator with pride of place initially with his beloved Connemara Gaels. However as an administrator he expanded his role and progressed all the way to the highest office, culminating in his election as president of greater New York GAA, initially for six years. This occurred in 1978 when he replaced the legendary John Kerry O’Donnell. His popularity during his presidency was created by his kindness and support to especially emigrants from not alone Connemara but nationwide as well. After his six-year stint as president his popularity still remained and it was no surprise to see him being elected once more in 1990 for a further six-year period. Many people paid tributes to Jackie on his departure from this life however the true reflection of the man was the thousands that paid tribute to him when he was alive?

By John O’Malley and read by Colleen Curran - listen to text and a poem on Track no Music 13

Some sporting heroes do it all for fame But Jackie Salmon shunned the acclaim Started his life in Cloonluane Renvyle A decade where World War 2 delivered human vile His first GAA memories - the 52 minor final loss Emigration followed - first to England then New York

A true Connemara Gael in the capital of the U.S.A Renowned for his association with emigrants in the day Became leader of Gaelic football in this foreign land Reaching the GAA pinnacle in 78 and in 90 again A helping hand for the new arrivals and a place to stay Was common place for Jackie from day to day

Returning home to Renvyle in his retiring years Mixing with the Gaels he left behind as a youth in tears Never boasted about his contribution to the GAA Preferred to leave this for others to have their say So farewell Jackie and thanks for what you have done For you - your proud Salmon family and everyone