The foundation meeting in the Town Hall

The inaugural meeting of Portlaoise GAA Club took place in the Town Hall on Monday 28 November 1887. It was a public meeting called by placard and attracted a large attendance from across Maryborough, now Portlaoise. Among those present were Dr Higgins, coroner for Queen’s County, who presided, along with N. Walsh T.C., P.A. Meehan T.C., C. McDermott T.C., P. Kelly T.C., T. Lawlor T.C., C.E. Corcoran, solicitor, Mark Walsh, J. Moore, P.J. Hegarty, R.P. Fennell, P. Fitzpatrick, M. Brophy and J.T. Delaney.

Opening the meeting, Dr Higgins described the formation of a branch of the Gaelic Athletic Association in Maryborough as “a very desirable movement” and said it was time for the town to follow the example of other important towns across Ireland. He stated that the district possessed athletes equal to any in the country and believed they would prove themselves once given the opportunity under the Association.

R.P. Fennell outlined the aims of the GAA and stressed that it was a non-political and non-sectarian organisation. P.A. Meehan proposed the first resolution “that a branch of the Gaelic Athletic Association be hereby established in the town and that it be called the William O’Brien Branch”, a reference to nationalist figure William O’Brien who was imprisoned in Tullamore Jail at the time. The motion was seconded by Mr Kelly and passed by the meeting.

Dr Higgins was elected president and C.E. Corcoran vice-president. R.P. Fennell became secretary while J. Moore was elected treasurer. During the meeting there was also strong criticism of attempts to divide the Association at Thurles earlier that year, reflecting the determination locally to support and strengthen the new GAA movement.

In closing the meeting, Dr Higgins stated that it had always been his wish and duty to advance “the interests of the National cause” in Maryborough and remarked that the town had long been prominently associated with that movement. His remarks were received with enthusiastic applause. That evening in November 1887 marked the beginning of what would become one of the most important sporting and community institutions in the town.

Maryborough’s first reported games

The first reported game involving the newly formed Maryborough club appeared in the Leinster Express following a friendly football match against the recently established Portarlington side on Sunday, 4 November 1888. The game took place on grounds situated close to Odlum’s Mill and adjoining the railway station in Portarlington.

Maryborough proved too strong and recorded a convincing 1-6 to 0-0 victory. Local man George Copeland acted as referee and according to reports performed his duties “to the satisfaction of all concerned”. Afterwards, the visitors were entertained by Portarlington in the “Dramatic Room” of the Catholic Young Men’s Society, with both clubs finishing the evening amidst cheers for the GAA.

A fortnight later on Sunday, 18 November 1888, Maryborough faced Clonad in what became the first recorded meeting between two clubs who would later develop one of Laois hurling’s great rivalries. Played on a field at Meelick kindly provided by Mr M. Corcoran of Maryborough, reports praised the football but criticised some of the conduct during the game, highlighting how fiercely competitive Gaelic games had already become in the county’s earliest years.

The club’s development continued into January 1889 when Maryborough staged a major triple fixture day featuring football, juvenile football and the first reported hurling outing in club history against Ballytarsna. Maryborough again defeated Portarlington in football by 0-5 to 0-0 before the juvenile side also recorded victory.

Though the hurlers lost 2-6 to 0-0 against a much more experienced Ballytarsna team, reports praised the “plucky performance” of the Maryborough players on their first appearance. Among those singled out for good displays were W. Fitzpatrick, James Reilly and P. Whelan, while team captain John McGuire received particular praise for guiding the fledgling side.

Those early fixtures marked the first competitive steps in what would become one of the great sporting stories in Laois GAA history.

First county football championship triumph

Sunday 28 July 1889 marked one of the defining days in the earliest history of Portlaoise GAA when Maryborough captured the county football championship for the first time, defeating Wolfhill by 0-3 to 0-2 in Kellyville.

The final took place in Mr Webber’s demesne, kindly made available by Kellyville GAA, and attracted what newspaper reports described as a huge and representative attendance from across Queen’s County. Both teams entered the decider unbeaten over the previous twelve months and confidence was high in both camps.

Wolfhill, regarded as stronger kickers, started the better and opened a two-point advantage during the opening half. The Leinster Express reported that things looked “blue” for the Maryborough men at the break as Wolfhill held a deserved lead.

The game changed after the restart when captain John Delany struck an excellent forty-yard free to reduce the deficit. The score lifted Maryborough and sparked a major turnaround as the Town men raised their intensity and gradually forced themselves back into the contest.

With excitement building among the large attendance, Maryborough eventually struck the decisive point around ten minutes from time and defended bravely until the final whistle to secure a dramatic one-point victory and become county football champions for the first time.

The Leinster Express described scenes of tremendous cheering and “a perfect shower of applause” as Maryborough were declared champions, securing the first county title in club history and laying foundations for the remarkable provincial achievements that would follow later that year.

The Maryborough team was: John Delany (captain), Joseph Tehan, Joseph Dunne, John Whelan, Thomas Holohan, Thomas Cushion, Daniel Cushion, Michael Cushion, Patrick Cushion, John Connor, Thomas Shiel, Joseph Murphy, John Kennedy, Daniel Drennan, William King, John Troy, Patrick Brady, Thomas Conroy, James Fleming, Joseph Walsh and Nicholas Maher.

Early Leinster glory

One of the most extraordinary achievements in the entire history of Portlaoise GAA, and arguably in the history of the Association itself, took place on Sunday 13 October 1889 when the Maryborough footballers captured the Leinster Championship in truly remarkable circumstances.

Incredibly, the Queen’s County champions were required to play both the Leinster semi-final and final on the same afternoon at the St Patrick’s Grounds in Inchicore, Dublin. To win the provincial title, Maryborough first had to defeat Wicklow champions Bray Emmets before returning to the field barely an hour later to face a fresh Newtown Blues side from Louth in the Leinster final.

Before a crowd estimated at between two and three thousand spectators, the Maryborough men first overcame Bray Emmets by nine points to four after a fiercely contested encounter. Contemporary reports praised the physique and determination of the Laois men, describing them as “splendid specimens of bone and muscle” in their green jerseys and white buckskin breeches.

After only a short recovery period and some light refreshments on the sideline, the exhausted Maryborough players returned to the field to face Newtown Blues, who were heavily fancied to claim the title. Despite having already completed one gruelling championship match, the Queen’s County men somehow produced another heroic performance.

Newtown Blues led by two points at half-time with the aid of the wind, but Maryborough responded magnificently after the break. In a dramatic finish, Peter Brennan kicked the decisive late point from a difficult free to secure a 3-2 victory and hand Maryborough the first Leinster football title ever won by a team from Laois.

The achievement was hailed as one of the most creditable performances ever witnessed in the provincial championship. The Leinster Express remarked that “the winning of two matches in the one evening by Maryborough is certainly a most creditable performance.”

The Maryborough side was captained by John Delany and featured players drawn from clubs across Laois, as county champions were permitted to strengthen from other teams during the era. Their extraordinary triumph remains one of the most remarkable stories in the early history of Gaelic football and one of the foundational moments in the story of Portlaoise GAA.

The Maryborough team was listed by the Leinster Express as follows: John Delany (captain), John T. Whelan, William King, Thomas Cushion, T. H. Cushion, Patrick Cushion, Daniel Cushion, Michael Cushion, James Fleming, Joseph Walsh, Joseph Teehan, Thomas Sheil, Joseph Murphy, Nicholas Maher, Patrick Brady, John Troy, Daniel Drennan, Joseph Dunne, John Connor, Thomas Conroy

The All-Ireland final

Only one week after their remarkable Leinster triumph, the Maryborough footballers returned to Inchicore to contest the All-Ireland final against Munster champions Bohercrowe of Tipperary. The achievement of reaching the decider alone was extraordinary given the demands already placed on the players during the provincial campaign.

Travel and communication in 1889 were extremely difficult and many of the players who had helped win the Leinster title were either injured, exhausted or unable to travel back to Dublin the following week. The intervening days had also brought severe weather, making preparations even more challenging for the Queen’s County champions.

As a result, Maryborough fielded an understrength side for the final and faced a powerful Bohercrowe team. Although the official result recorded a 3-6 to 0-0 victory for the Tipperary champions, contemporary reports stressed that the scoreline failed to reflect the determination and courage shown by the Laois men.

Match reports from the day described a tough and physical contest played in difficult conditions, with large crowds frequently encroaching onto the field. One eyewitness praised Maryborough for their “dashing determined game” despite acknowledging the greater experience and tactical strength of their opponents.

Peter Farrell, one of the players involved, later recalled that several members of the Leinster-winning side were still suffering from knocks and injuries sustained during the extraordinary double-header victory the previous week. New players had to be drafted into the side and many had little time to prepare for such a major occasion.

Though defeat brought an end to the dream of All-Ireland glory, the achievements of the Maryborough team in 1889 remained one of the great pioneering stories of Gaelic football. Within the space of seven days, the joy of winning the first Leinster football title for Laois had turned to the disappointment of All-Ireland defeat, but the exploits of those early players ensured their place in the sporting history of both Portlaoise and the county.

1889 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Leinster Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship

County champions again

Maryborough returned to the top of Laois football in 1892 when they captured another county championship following a dominant victory over Ballyroan in the final at Courtwood on Sunday, 10 July 1892.

The triumph came following an important period of change. In 1891, Maryborough and The Heath had amalgamated for championship purposes, with officers from both clubs helping guide the combined effort. At a joint meeting in April 1891, members also adopted a resolution urging Gaels to remain united and ensure contemporary political divisions would not interfere with Gaelic games.

Captained by John Delaney, Maryborough entered the 1892 championship in strong form after recording comfortable victories in their qualifying matches. In the county final they faced 1890 champions Ballyroan before a large attendance at Courtwood.

Maryborough quickly established control and led by 2-2 to 0-0 at half-time before producing a commanding second-half display to run out emphatic 6-6 to 0-1 winners and reclaim county football honours.

Maryborough win first Junior championship

In 1908, Maryborough captured the club’s first Junior ‘A’ Football Championship. The title was awarded after Cromogue conceded a walkover, giving Maryborough their breakthrough county success at junior level.

1908 honours

• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship

Fr Kearney and Laois hurling

Portlaoise clubman and county chairman Fr J.J. Kearney helps guide Laois hurling to its only senior All-Ireland title, with Portlaoise administrators also central to the campaign.

First minor hurling championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Minor Hurling Championship in 1923, marking an important milestone in the early development of underage hurling within the town. The success highlighted the growing strength of juvenile Gaelic games in Portlaoise during the early decades of the Association.

Among the players involved was Matt Walsh, later Fr Matt Walsh, who would go on to become one of the most important figures in the history of Portlaoise GAA. Fr Matt Walsh served as Life President of the club from the early 1950s until his death in 1995 and became synonymous with the growth and development of Gaelic games in Portlaoise over several generations.

The success came during a fascinating period in the history of the GAA locally, with clubs and affiliations in the town at the time including IRA Signals and Green Road, Portlaoighise. The 1923 title helped lay foundations for the strong tradition of underage hurling that would continue to grow in the decades that followed.

First Junior Hurling Championship

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Junior Hurling Championship in 1923, marking another important milestone in the early sporting development of the club. The success reflected the growing strength of hurling in the town.

Dr Thomas F. O’Higgins murdered

Dr Thomas F. O’Higgins played a central role in the foundation of Portlaoise GAA Club when he chaired the inaugural public meeting held in the Town Hall, Maryborough, on Monday 28 November 1887. At the meeting, Dr O’Higgins strongly supported the establishment of a Gaelic Athletic Association club in the town and described it as “a very desirable movement”, urging the people of Maryborough to support the growth of Gaelic games locally.

A popular general practitioner based in Stradbally, Dr O’Higgins was widely respected throughout Laois. He married Anne O’Sullivan, daughter of T.D. O’Sullivan, who had previously served as Lord Mayor of Dublin. Through both his professional and public life, Dr O’Higgins became closely associated with Irish national and cultural life during a hugely significant period in Irish history.

Tragedy would later strike the family during the turbulent years surrounding the Civil War. Dr O’Higgins was murdered at his home outside Stradbally in 1923. His son, Kevin O’Higgins then Minister for Home Affairs, became one of the most important political figures in the early Irish Free State and played a leading role in establishing the institutions of the new state, including the formation of the unarmed Garda Síochána.

Kevin O’Higgins adopted a hardline position during the Civil War and, as a result, attracted fierce opposition from republican opponents. In July 1927, he was assassinated while walking to Mass on Booterstown Avenue in Dublin.

The involvement of Dr O’Higgins at the very first meeting of Portlaoise GAA places him among the key founding figures in the story of the club and links the origins of Portlaoise GAA with some of the most significant events in modern Irish history.

1923 honours

• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship

First senior hurling championship

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Laois Senior Hurling Championship in 1928, defeating neighbouring rivals Clonad by 0-4 to 1-0 in the county final at O’Moore Park on 26 October. It was a landmark victory for The Town and the first time the senior hurling title came to Portlaoise.

The campaign had already shown the growing promise of the Portlaoise hurlers. They drew with Ballacolla at Clonad, won the replay at Abbeyleix and then survived an objection before moving on to defeat Rathdowney by 9-3 to 3-1 in the semi-final.

The final itself was a hard, sporting and closely contested game. Clonad led by 1-0 to 0-1 at half-time after a goal late in the opening half, but Portlaoise battled back after the restart. Ger Kelly pointed and later had a goal ruled out for a square infringement before Andy Carter brought The Town level.

The winning score came from Paddy Doran, who landed a crucial seventy after Carter had forced the free. Clonad fought strongly in the closing stages, but the Portlaoise defence, led by John Dunne, Mick Dunne and Jimmy Fortune, held firm to secure a famous first senior hurling crown.

The victory was greeted with great pride across the town. Clonad’s Lar Brady visited the Portlaoise dressing room afterwards to congratulate the winners, while the team were later guests of the local Labour Club at an all-night dance in the Town Hall.

The Portlaoise team was: Jimmy Fortune, John Dunne (captain), Mick Dunne, John Kelly, Mick Conroy, Paddy Dunne, Paddy Doran, Jim Quinn, Ger Kelly, Bill Quinlan, Andy Carter, Mick Nolan, Larry Cushion, John Hogan and Billy Carroll.

1928 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship

Senior hurling final controversy

Fresh from winning their first senior hurling title in 1928, Portlaoise again reached the Laois Senior Hurling Championship final in 1929 after defeating Ballacolla in the semi-final. However, what promised to be another major occasion for The Town instead became one of the most controversial episodes in the club’s early history.

During the championship campaign, Portlaoise player Martin Delaney sustained an injury in the semi-final victory over Ballacolla which resulted in medical and hospital expenses. The club applied to the County Board for financial assistance towards the costs.

County Board chairman Lar Brady ruled that the application could not be entertained, stating that clubs should have insured their players and that this had been communicated previously. In response, Portlaoise delegate W. Carroll informed the board that Portlaoise would withdraw from the championship and would not contest the final against Kilcotton.

The decision sparked widespread debate. Writing in The Nationalist on 8 February 1930, a contributor suggested that a fundraising match in aid of the injured player could have resolved matters and lamented the possibility of losing Gaelic games representation in the county town, where support for the GAA had existed since its earliest days.

At a County Board meeting in April 1930, Kilcotton were formally awarded the 1929 Laois Senior Hurling Championship title following Portlaoise’s withdrawal.

Though no silverware came The Town’s way that year, the events highlighted the financial struggles faced by clubs of the era and the strong sense of loyalty Portlaoise showed towards their players during difficult times.

First Intermediate Hurling win and the first “Town” champions

Portlaoise enjoyed an important breakthrough period in hurling during the winter of 1935 and spring of 1936 when the club captured the Intermediate Hurling Championship in impressive fashion. It was during this campaign that the club was first referred to in newspaper reports as “The Town”, a nickname that would become synonymous with Portlaoise GAA in the decades that followed.

The championship campaign began with a dramatic victory over Clonaslee in a rain-soaked encounter at O’Moore Park in November 1935. In difficult conditions, a late goal by Paddy Doran secured victory for Portlaoise in what was described as a thrilling contest.

In the semi-final against Boley in February 1936, Portlaoise produced a dominant display to win by fourteen points. Early goals from Tom Lalor helped establish a strong lead, while players such as Tony Delaney, Dinny Cooke and the Conroy brothers impressed throughout.

The final against Ballyfin took place only weeks later in bitterly cold conditions. Despite the small attendance, those present witnessed an excellent display from Portlaoise as The Town ran out convincing 3-8 to 2-0 winners to secure the Intermediate Hurling Championship. Jim Coss starred in the opening half with four points while Tom McEvoy’s second-half goal helped seal the title.

According to reports in The Nationalist from March 1936, this was the first known occasion on which Portlaoise were referred to as “The Town” in print, beginning a nickname and identity that remains central to the club to this day.

The successful Portlaoise panel included Jim Brien, Martin Delaney, John Dunne, Mick Dunne, Dinny Cooke, Tony Delaney, Paddy Doran, Jim Coss, Jimmy Conroy, Tom McEvoy, Din O’Neill, Kevin Croke, Tom Lalor and Owen Bergin among others.

1935 honours

• Hurling – Intermediate Laois Intermediate Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship

First Minor football championship success

Portlaoighise captured the Minor Football Championship of 1937 with an impressive 1-6 to 0-2 victory over Ballyroan in the final, which was eventually played in March 1939. Leading by 1-3 to 0-1 at half-time, the Town controlled the contest and secured a deserved championship success.

The defence played a major role in the victory with P. Redmond, Tierney and J. Nolan all singled out for excellent performances. In attack, however, P. Walsh was the outstanding figure and scored all but one point of the Portlaoise total. Kelleher accounted for the remaining score.

This is the report of the game which appeared in the April 1st 1939 edition of the Nationalist and Leinster Times.

The Minor Final was won by Portlaoighise who beat Ballyroan by 1-6 to 0-2 after leading by 1-3 to 0-1 at the interval.

The game opened on a keen note and was a great and fast first half affair with the boys putting all they knew into their work. In the second half the lighter and smaller Ballyroan team seemed to tire and failed against a good defence in which Redmond, Tierney and Nolan stood out. Walsh was a good place kicker for the winners and made great use of all his frees while Conroy and Scully were also good about midfield.

D. Corcoran and his brother Jack put up a good fight for Ballyroan and promise to emulate the feats of their father, while young Whelan seems to merit the praise we hear of him “a second Skinner”. Knowles, Peacock and Buggy were others to catch the eye in a game that showed there is good material in both centres. Whelan got the opening point for Ballyroan but P. Walsh equalised from a free and then followed a period of great football with the spectators getting plenty to enthuse about. Kelleher pointed for Portlaoighise and Walsh put over another one from a free. The Ballyroan forwards were finding J. Nolan and P. Redmond in great form and so could not get scores. Near the interval P. Walsh scored a goal and Portlaoighise led by 1-3 to 0-1 at half time.

Ballyroan had a spell of attack on the restart and Peacock pointed but Walsh replied with one for the leaders. The going was still good, but Ballyroan were tiring and despite great work by J. Corcoran and Whelan they could not get through. Buggy stood up well to the Portlaoighise attacks but Walsh added a couple of points and Ballyroan were defeated by 1-6 to 0-2.

1937 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

First Intermediate football success

On 10 September 1939, Portlaoise captured the Laois Intermediate Football Championship with a hard-earned 1-8 to 2-2 victory over Jamestown. The success represented an important step forward for the club during a period of rebuilding and development in the years before Portlaoise would eventually re-establish itself among the leading senior football clubs in the county.

Captained by Lar Cushion, Portlaoise produced a determined display to edge out Jamestown in a closely contested encounter. The team featured many players who would become well-known figures within the club in the years that followed, including Paddy “Hasper” Farrell, Vinnie Scully, Paddy Conroy, Jim Coss and J. Critchley.

The starting team listed on the day included D. Delaney, Kevin Croke, Burke, Fitzsimons, Lar Cushion, Paddy “Hasper” Farrell, Vinnie Scully, Paddy Conroy, Paddy Walsh, J. Critchley, Conway and Jim Coss, while the wider panel also featured Mick Bowler, John Stack, Jim Stack, Lalor, Hughes, Hickey, Tom Tierney, Jimmy Nolan and Flanagan.

1939 honours

• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship

Minor football title awarded after final dispute

There was some compensation for The Town in 1940 when Portlaoise captured the Laois Minor Football Championship, adding an important underage football title during a difficult period for the club.

According to Laois GAA historian John Phelan, a dispute arose before the county final over the age of one of the Stradbally players. As a result, the game was awarded to Portlaoise and The Town were credited with the championship.

A challenge match was played between Portlaoise and Stradbally instead, with Stradbally reputed to have won by 7-3 to 0-1. However, the official championship honours rested with Portlaoise.

1940 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

Two minor football titles in succession

Portlaoise were officially credited with the 1941 Laois Minor Football Championship to complete two consecutive county minor football titles for The Town.

According to Laois GAA historian John Phelan, Portlaoise were beaten in the 1941 final by 2-5 to 0-1. However, circumstances following the game meant that the title was ultimately awarded to Portlaoise.

Remarkably, it meant that Portlaoise secured back-to-back minor football championships in 1940 and 1941 without claiming either crown on the field of play.

Despite the unusual circumstances, the honours record shows Portlaoise as county minor football champions for two years in a row during an era when administrative decisions and eligibility disputes could have a major impact on championship outcomes.

1941 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

Rovers reach senior hurling ranks

In 1945, The Rovers achieved the greatest success in the club’s history to that point when they captured the Intermediate Hurling Championship and secured promotion to the senior ranks for the first time.

The breakthrough came in the county final against Raheen, where Rovers produced a superb display to win by 4-2 to 1-3. The victory represented the high point of a hugely successful era for the club following earlier minor football and hurling championship successes in the early 1940s.

Captained by James Maher, the side featured many of the outstanding players who had helped establish Rovers as a growing force in Laois hurling, including Joe Tierney, Teddy Wilson, David Dunne, James Byrne, Patrick Conroy and Anthony Conroy.

This is the match report from the Nationalist and Leinster times published October 6th 1945.

GRAND HURLING.

After one of the best Hurling games seen for a long time, Rovers achieved their ambition when they beat Raheen in the 1945 Intermediate Hurling Final to become Champions, the final score being 4-2 to 1-3; after the sides had been level at 6 points each at half time.

The winners won because they lasted the fast and hard pace the better. Raheen tired in the second half when the going was still hard. Rovers also had a grand defence, which settled down to magnificent hurling after a shaky opening quarter. T. McCarthy, T. Byrne, V. Browne and E. Wilson were a great quartet, the latter playing a grand second half game and clearing with length. Dave Maher and J. Tierney were a good midfield pair and beat their opponents on many occasions. C. Scully, C. O’Dea, B. Byrne and Conroy were prominent among a lively forward line who made the most of their chances.

UNLUCKY.

Raheen may be reckoned somewhat unlucky when they lost the services of their good full back, T. Whelan, but R. Whelan, J. Lalor and Joe Whelan did much to keep up their end and prevent scores, while Donovan kept a good goal. One of his saves was a treat to watch when he saved a bullet-like drive from A. Conroy in the second half. Jim Whelan was a tireless worker at centre-field and hit good balls in the air, while A. Ring, V. Dooley, W. Lalor and M. Galvin were the pick of the forwards.

TURN OF TIDE.

The “turn of the tide” for Rovers came in the second half when a switch brought Joe Tierney to midfield, for seldom has he played a better game. One solo run of his in the closing quarter brought down the House, while he also helped in the scoring.

PLAY.

Play ran like this: Rovers were defending the Town goal at the start, and after Tom Byrne had beaten back a Raheen offensive, Joe Tierney hit a long ball to goal and B. Byrne sent to the net. T. Whelan was hurt in stemming a Rovers offensive and retired. M. Flanagan came on with consequent positional changes, Dick Whelan going full back. Raheen took up the offensive, and McCarthy conceded a “70” in saving a fast shot. The free was well placed by Joe Whelan and A. Ring pointed and when Galvin and Lalor added one each the sides were level after 15 minutes play. Raheen were now on top, and Rovers were being outplayed as their backs missed on ground balls. Jim Whelan hit well to goal, and as players and hurleys clashed, Joe Delaney hit the net and D. Dunne (goalie) went down injured. He was compelled to retire and P. Conroy came on to “guard the gap.” He soon proved his worth when he saved from Ring and Joe Tierney hit goalwards for B. Byrne to cross to A. Conroy to score a goal and level up for the second time in the game. There was no further scoring in this half and honours were even at the interval: Rovers 2-0; Raheen 1-3.

CHANGES.

Rovers had positional changes on the resumption and were soon attacking, Donovan saving well from Conroy. Back swept Rovers and C. Scully put them in front when he pointed from far out. In a keen bit of play at midfield Jim Whelan went down injured but quickly resumed to see Joe Tierney put in a grand run and score a goal to make the lead 4 points. Rovers were now controlling the game at midfield where D. Maher and Joe Tierney had found their best form. M. Lalor conceded a “70” in clearing from O’Dea and T. Byrne hit well to goal where Donovan again saved for a further “70,” which travelled to C. O’Dea who hit a grand goal. The hurling was still good and keen, and Raheen failed close in and had 2 wides after McCarthy and Byrne had cleared. Ted Wilson was also playing a grand game in the Rovers defence. Rovers lost Joe Conroy injured, and A. Murphy came on to help in an offensive that was beaten back by M. Lalor. Again Raheen forwards were beaten by a good defence and Browne hit clear to see Joe Tierney snap a high ball and close scoring with a point, to leave his side winners and Champions on the score: Rovers 4-2 (14); Raheen 1-3 (6).

Mr. Paddy Drennan, Errill, proved a capable referee in the absence of Mr. Sean Carroll.

The Rovers were trained by Tommy Bergin, the former Abbeyleix player who is congratulated on the form into which he moulded the players.

1945 honours

• Hurling – Intermediate – Rovers Laois Intermediate Hurling Championship (Rovers)
• Hurling – Minor – Rovers Laois Minor Hurling Championship (Rovers)

Kilminchy win first minor football championship

Kilminchy captured the Laois Minor Football Championship for the first and only time in 1950 with a memorable 1-5 to 0-4 victory over holders Graiguecullen at Stradbally.

Graiguecullen entered the final as overwhelming favourites in search of a remarkable six-in-a-row of county titles and looked firmly in control when they led by four points at half-time. However, Kilminchy produced a superb second-half comeback, inspired by a brilliant goal from Billy Bunyan, to turn the game around and claim a famous victory.

Finnerty, Roe and Larkin excelled in defence while Sheridan and O’Keeffe gained the upper hand at midfield. In attack, James “Muddy” Carroll, Oisin Liddy and the in-form Billy Bunyan were central to a deserved Kilminchy triumph.

The victory represented one of the proudest moments in the history of Kilminchy and further strengthened the club following its earlier Junior Championship success during the 1940s.

1950 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Kilminchy Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship (Kilminchy)

Minor football glory as both teams reach county finals

Portlaoise enjoyed another strong period at underage level as both the club’s minor footballers and hurlers qualified for county finals, underlining the strength of youth development within the club in the early 1950s.

The footballers booked their place in the delayed 1951 Minor Football Championship Final after defeating Park by 2-3 to 1-3. Christy Reddin, John Hughes, Frank O’Donnell, Rock Scully and the Bracken brothers stood out in an impressive display. Paddy Bracken contributed 0-3 while Frank O’Donnell and Ned Fitzpatrick each found the net.

Their victory set up a local derby against reigning champions Kilminchy, who had defeated Stradbally by 3-3 to 1-1 in their semi-final.

Played on July 13, 1952, the delayed county final proved a tense and fiercely contested encounter. Kilminchy led by 1-2 to 1-1 at half-time, but Portlaoise took control after the restart and kept their rivals scoreless during the second period to secure a hard-earned 1-5 to 1-2 victory.

The physical nature of the game disrupted the flow of play and referee Tony Coleman of Portarlington was even forced to clear spectators back from the sideline during the match.

Paddy Bracken was the leading scorer with all five points, while Ted Fitzpatrick struck the decisive goal.

The victorious Portlaoise football team was: Rock Scully, Paddy Costigan, Tom Bracken, Tony Bergin, Jim Hughes, John Muldowney, Frank O’Donnell, Paddy Bracken (0-5), Richard Brown, Joe Hogan, Christy Reddin, Mick Conroy, Hugh Campion, Ted Fitzpatrick (1-0) and Sean Bergin.

Kilminchy lined out with Rupert O’Rourke, S. Keyes, Billy Bunyan, Dinny Griffey, R. Donlan, Mick Hennessy, Mick Larkin, W. Conroy, Sean Brennan, Tommy Fitzpatrick, Dinny Roe, J. O’Neill, Jimmy Rankin, Tom Walsh and Paddy Lacumber, with George Buggy and C. Gorman also involved.

The club’s minor hurlers also reached another county final and were aiming for a remarkable three-in-a-row of Minor Hurling Championship successes.

Portlaoise had powered into the final with a commanding 7-6 to 0-2 victory over Clonaslee in the semi-final. Hugh Campion struck 3-0 while Rock Scully added 2-1.

In the delayed 1951 Minor Hurling Final played in July 1952, Portlaoise and Abbeyleix served up an exciting draw, Portlaoise finishing with 4-3 to Abbeyleix’s 3-6.

Abbeyleix proved stronger in the replay a few weeks later, however, claiming victory by 4-6 to 3-3. After a level opening quarter, Abbeyleix produced a devastating spell before half-time to lead 3-4 to 0-2 at the interval.

Portlaoise mounted a determined comeback and cut the gap to four points, but Abbeyleix’s defence stood firm before adding a late goal to close out victory.

The Portlaoise minor hurling side was: Liam Horan, Mick Conroy, Ned Fitzpatrick, John Muldowney, John Hughes, Tom Bracken, Tony Bergin, Mick Larkin, Sean Bergin, Frank Dunne, Paddy Bracken, Richard Brown, Hugh Campion, Ned Campion and Rock Scully.

1951 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

Minor hurlers charge back to another county final

Portlaoise’s talented crop of young hurlers continued to underline the club’s growing strength in underage hurling during 1952, battling their way through the Minor Hurling Championship to reach another county final.The county final itself would not take place until March 1953.

The campaign began with a quarter-final victory over Mountmellick by 6-3 to 1-0. Despite the final margin, the contest was much tighter than the scoreboard suggested. Portlaoise held only a narrow 2-1 to 1-0 lead at half-time before their superior physicality and sharper finishing proved decisive after the break.

The Portlaoise side for that victory was: Jimmy Fennell, Paddy Costigan, Tony Bergin, John Slattery, John Hughes, Tom Bracken, Ted Fitzpatrick, Paddy Bracken, Eugene Byrne, Richard Brown, Frank Dunne, Donald Dunne, Liam Horan, Hugh Campion and Rock Scully.

Awaiting them in the semi-final were local rivals The Rovers, but Portlaoise produced one of their strongest performances of the campaign to record a commanding 6-7 to 2-0 victory.

A blistering opening laid the foundations for success. Portlaoise built a dominant 2-5 to 0-0 advantage by half-time and their defence remained resolute throughout, ensuring the Rovers never mounted a meaningful comeback.

John Hughes captained the side from centre-back and was central to a defensive display that restricted the opposition to just two goals across the hour.

The Portlaoise team that defeated The Rovers was: Jimmy Fennell, Paddy Costigan, Paddy Bracken, John Slattery, John Hughes (Captain), Tom Bracken, Ted Fitzpatrick, Tony Bergin, Eugene Byrne, Donald Dunne, Richard Brown, Liam Horan, Rock Scully, M. Howard and Hugh Campion.

The Rovers lined out with P. Regan, H. Brown, J. Brennan, J. Mangan, P. Walsh, T. Carroll, N. Delaney, J. Keyes, B. Wall, J. McEvoy, J. Preston, J. McAuliffe, B. Stack, P. Lacumber and P. Regan. Subs: J. Lalor and T. Foyle.

1952 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship

Kilminchy and The Rovers unite with Portlaoise

By the early 1950s, Gaelic games in the town were divided across several clubs competing for the same pool of players. Kilminchy had endured a difficult 1952 season, with declining player numbers and weakening structures, while The Rovers, despite a proud history and strong local identity around Rathleague and the New Road, were also finding it increasingly difficult to remain competitive due to emigration and the loss of players to other clubs.

In 1953, major efforts were made to unite the town under one stronger club structure. Fr T. O’Donnell, who had served as chairman of Kilminchy, urged members to amalgamate with Portlaoise, while Fr Matt Walsh made what the club history book describes as a passionate appeal for unity so that the town could once again compete seriously for senior honours. Although some Kilminchy members were reluctant to see their club disappear, the unity proposal carried and Kilminchy officially joined Portlaoise in 1953.

The process continued in 1954 when The Rovers also joined with Portlaoise. The Leinster Express famously ran the headline “Will they call it Portlaoise Rovers?” as discussion around the merger gathered pace. Joe Byrne of Summerhill, long-serving Rovers secretary, announced at the Portlaoise AGM that Rovers members had agreed to join the club and pledged their full support to the newly amalgamated organisation.

The amalgamation was heavily supported by Fr O’Donnell and Fr Matt Walsh, who believed the future success of Gaelic games in the town depended on a united structure. A new committee incorporating members from Portlaoise, Kilminchy and The Rovers was formed in 1954, combining players, volunteers, administrators and supporters from across the town into one club.

The importance of those decisions became clear in the decades that followed. The united Portlaoise club grew into the dominant force in Laois football and one of the strongest dual clubs in Leinster, with many families from The Rovers and Kilminchy remaining deeply woven into the fabric of The Town right through to the present day.

Portlaoise win first U16 A hurling championship

Portlaoise captured the Under 16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship in 1954 after receiving a walkover from Mountrath in the county final.

1953 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship

1954 honours

• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

Under 16 hurlers complete three-in-a-row

Portlaoise completed a memorable three-in-a-row of Laois Under 16 Hurling Championship titles in 1956.

Having already captured the title in 1954 and 1955, Portlaoise retained the championship with a thrilling 7-7 to 6-4 victory over Clonaslee in a high-scoring final.

The Portlaoise team was: George Rankin, Tom Bergin, Mick McDonald, John Early, Brendan O’Brien, Syd Lewis, John Ramsbottom, James O’Reilly, Tadhg O’Sullivan, Tom O’Reilly, Michael Hughes, Ollie O’Meara, Pascal Delaney, Jim O’Donnell and Martin Whelan.

Portlaoise secure minor double

Portlaoise completed a memorable minor football and hurling double in 1956, adding another landmark chapter to the club’s growing underage success during the decade.

In football, The Town reclaimed the Laois Minor Football Championship title for the first time since 1954 with a superb 3-6 to 1-6 victory over neighbours The Heath in a fiercely contested county final. Played on a heavy sod, Portlaoise built a strong platform with a 0-4 to 0-0 interval lead before weathering a determined second-half challenge from their rivals.

Their route to the final saw victories over Luggacurran (3-7 to 0-1), Annanough (0-9 to 1-5) and Mountmellick (2-5 to 1-2).

The Portlaoise football panel was: Johnny McCormack, Peter Keenan, Ollie Fennell, Syd Lewis, Pat Dalton, Alfie Lewis, Kevin Bunyan, Tom Preston, Dave Lalor, Frank McCluskey, Kevin Kavanagh, James O’Reilly, Louis Scully, Brian O’Reilly and Joe Lalor.

The celebrations continued when Portlaoise completed the minor double by capturing the Minor Hurling Championship. In one of the lowest-scoring finals on record, The Town edged Rathdowney by 1-2 to 1-1 in a fiercely contested encounter where scores were at a premium and every ball fiercely fought.

The decisive score came thirteen minutes from time when J. Ryan struck for goal following an Alfie Lewis inspired move, proving enough to separate the sides in a thrilling and tense finish.

Portlaoise reached the hurling final after defeating Abbeyleix by 7-6 to 2-1 and overcoming Mountrath in the semi-final by 6-2 to 4-2.

The Portlaoise hurling panel was: Joe Lalor, Peter Keenan, Tom Brown, Dave Lalor, Kevin Bunyan, Pat Dalton, Ollie Fennell, Alfie Lewis, Johnny McCormack, Louis Scully (0-2), Brian O’Reilly, Mick Doran, J. Ryan (1-0), Brendan Conroy and James O’Reilly. Sub: Kevin Kavanagh.

1956 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship

A famous final win, and the controversy that followed

On 30 November 1958, Portlaoise defeated The Heath in the Laois Senior Football Championship final replay at O’Moore Park on a scoreline of 3-7 to 1-4. It was one of the great victories in the history of the club, appearing to return The Town to the senior football roll of honour for the first time in forty years.

The Leinster Express described the replay as a game of “thrilling passages, all-out endeavour, and a high degree of sportsmanship”, noting that the names of captain Alfie Lewis, midfielder Phil O’Keeffe and forward Noel Delaney would be toasted in Portlaoise as the county town returned to football fame.

Portlaoise led by 2-5 to 0-2 at half-time, but The Heath fought back strongly after the break. By the three-quarter stage, the gap had been reduced to 2-6 to 1-3 after Ollie Fennell goaled for The Heath, with Sean Brennan among their standout performers.

The decisive score came late on when Portlaoise substitutes Tom Phelan and Richard “Sonny” Brown combined, with Brown crashing home the clinching goal to seal a memorable 3-7 to 1-4 victory for The Town.

However, the celebrations were short-lived. The victory was later taken away following an objection, with the decision made by County Board chairman Lar Brady at a meeting in the Courthouse in Portlaoise. The manner in which the objection was handled caused deep anger within the Portlaoise club and left a bitter taste between the local rivals, Portlaoise and The Heath, for years afterwards.

Though the title was lost in the court room, the performance itself remained a hugely important moment in the club’s football story. It showed that Portlaoise were once again capable of competing at the top level in Laois and helped lay the foundations for the breakthrough that would finally arrive in 1964.

First Under 12 Football Championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Under 12 Football Championship in 1958, another important milestone in the growth of juvenile football within The Town.

The young Portlaoise side defeated Ballyadams in the final to secure a breakthrough title and continue the strong development of underage football that was beginning to emerge within the club during the 1950s.

Captained by Mark Carroll, the successful team featured Jim Barry, Bill Carroll, Peter Doyle, Tom Walsh, Oliver Phelan, Frank Byrne, Frank Beere, Jack Kavanagh, Brian Delaney, Matt Kelly, Paddy Doyle, Billy Marum, Jerome Dooley and Paschal Lalor.

The substitutes were Frank Hoare, Tony “Bracken” Conroy, Donal Bland and Donal Tierney.

1958 honours

• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

First Under 14 football championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Under 14 Football Championship in 1961, securing an important milestone in the continued growth of juvenile football within The Town.

The county final took place in Timahoe where Portlaoise produced a superb attacking display to defeat St Michael’s of Ballylinan by 4-11 to 2-5 and lift the Fr Kearney Cup.

Tom Walsh delivered one of the great individual performances in an underage county final, scoring an extraordinary personal tally of 4-6 to help drive Portlaoise to victory.

The successful Portlaoise team was: Donal Hoare, Anthony Conroy, Paddy Conroy, Eamon Duff, Danny Timmons, Michael Byrne, Seamus Doran, Paddy Doyle, Tom Walsh, Pat Kehoe, Pat Dempsey, J. Conroy, Liam Carroll, P.J. Harding and Tom Kerry. Pat Scully was substitute.

First Under 16 football championship

Portlaoise captured the Under 16 Football Championship in 1960 after a campaign that included both controversy and one of the most emphatic final victories in the club’s underage history.

In the semi-final against Portarlington, the game was left unfinished when Bro. Darcy decided to take his team off the field with only minutes remaining and Portlaoise leading. Portlaoise were awarded the game and advanced to the county final.

The final itself proved entirely one-sided as Portlaoise overwhelmed Graiguecullen by the extraordinary scoreline of 14-13 to 0-1. It was a remarkable display of attacking power and highlighted the strength of the club’s juvenile footballers at the beginning of the 1960s.

The Portlaoise team was: Jim Barry, Tadgh Donovan, Liam Fingleton, Andy Dowling, Frank Byrne, Oliver Phelan, Don Phelan, John O’Shaughnessy, Anthony Conroy, Brian Delaney, Paddy Fitzpatrick, Jack Kavanagh, Tom Walsh, Kevin Dunne and Garvan Harkin.

Another Minor double for The Town

Portlaoise continued their remarkable underage success in 1961 by completing another county minor football and hurling double. It was further evidence of a golden era for juvenile teams in The Town, with strength and quality emerging across both codes.

The minor hurlers captured their third championship in a row, but not before overcoming a stern Durrow challenge in a gripping county final. Portlaoise edged home by 2-4 to 2-3 thanks to two late points from midfielder Teddy Fennelly in a contest noted for its quality and dramatic finish.

Earlier in the championship, The Town had stormed past The Rovers by 11-11 to 0-0, with Grattan Street man Jack Delaney producing one of the great scoring displays in club history by registering an astonishing 8-3. Another emphatic victory followed against Colt by 9-7 to 1-2 before Durrow provided far sterner resistance in the decider.

Pascal Delaney, Joe Ramsbottom and Jim Leonard were among the standout performers in the final victory. Leonard completed a memorable afternoon, winning his second county medal of the day after helping Ratheniska secure the Intermediate Football Championship earlier.

The Portlaoise minor hurling side was: Tom Byrne, Jimmy Bergin, Aidan Galvin, James Deegan, Ollie Byrne, Jim Leonard, Mick Moore, Jack Delaney, Teddy Fennelly, John Fennell, Pascal Delaney, Jim Shaughnessy (Capt.), Eamon Rochford, Joe Ramsbottom and Mick Keogh. Subs: Paddy Fitzpatrick and George Beere.

The celebrations continued when Portlaoise reclaimed the county minor football championship after a five-year gap, defeating St Joseph’s (Ballyadams) by 1-14 to 0-6 in a high-quality final.

The Town struck early when Pascal Delaney gathered a pass from Cyril O’Meara and found the net within thirty seconds. From there Portlaoise controlled proceedings with standout displays throughout the field. Adrian Carbery, Des Brennan, Tom Quinn and P.J. Delaney impressed as Portlaoise regained the county crown despite being without county star John Meenan.

The Portlaoise minor football team was: Louis Harkin, Paddy Fitzpatrick, Joe Ramsbottom, Bill Phelan, Aidan Galvin, Tony Maher, Ollie Byrne, Teddy Fennelly, Jack Delaney, John Fennell, Pascal Delaney, Martin Gorman, Cyril O’Meara, James O’Shaughnessy and Seamus O’Brien.

1961 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'A' Football Championship

The breakthrough that changed modern Portlaoise football

The 1964 Laois Senior Football Championship victory is widely regarded as one of the most important moments in the modern history of Portlaoise GAA. When The Town defeated Graiguecullen by a single point in the county final, it ended a remarkable 57-year wait for a senior football title and transformed both the confidence and direction of the club.

For decades beforehand, Portlaoise football had endured periods of frustration despite strong underage work and the efforts of figures across The Rovers, Kilminchy and the revitalised Portlaoise club. The amalgamations of the early 1950s, combined with the rebuilding of the juvenile section after 1949, had slowly strengthened the foundations of Gaelic games within the town. By the early 1960s, that work was finally beginning to bear fruit.

The 1964 side contained players who had developed through the renewed juvenile structures of the 1950s and represented a generation that grew up believing Portlaoise could once again compete seriously for senior honours. The county final victory over Graiguecullen was tense and hard-fought, reflecting the intensity of local rivalry and the weight of expectation surrounding the team.

The scenes after the final reflected more than just the winning of a championship. For many within the town, it felt like the rebirth of Portlaoise football. The success gave the club renewed belief, attracted fresh energy into underage and adult structures and established a platform from which Portlaoise would eventually become the dominant football force in Laois over the following decades.

Under 16 football four-in-a-row and another Under 16 double

Portlaoise continued a remarkable era of juvenile success in 1964 by completing another Under 16 football and hurling double while also securing a fourth consecutive Under 16 football championship title.

The footballers captured county honours in emphatic style, defeating Portarlington by 4-13 to 1-5 in the county final.

The victorious football team was: Sean Delaney, Ger Dunne, Seamus Doran, Tommy Keane, Hugh Bracken, Danny Timmons, Paddy Conroy, P.J. Payne, Pat Kehoe, Pat Dempsey, Donal Hoare, Joe Delaney, Henry Carroll, Paddy Kelly and Gus Hayes. Sub: Louis McMahon.

In hurling, Portlaoise had already impressed on their road to the county final. They defeated Borris-in-Ossory by 4-2 to 3-1 in the semi-final to qualify for the decider.

The semi-final team was: Sean Delaney, L. Breen, S. Doran, E. Harkin, F. Murphy, P. Conroy, M. Byrne, T. Coughlan, R. Donoghue, L. Carroll, D. Timmons, H. Mulhaire, M. Carroll, H. Carroll and L. McMahon. Sub: J. Callaghan.

The county final against Pike-of-Rushall ended in deeply unfortunate circumstances. Portlaoise were leading comfortably by 6-3 to 2-5 when the game descended into chaos and had to be abandoned.

During the match, Portlaoise full-back Seamus Doran was attacked by an individual who entered the field carrying a hurley. When a Portlaoise mentor attempted to assist the player, disorder broke out around the field and large crowds gathered. Gardaí escorted the Portlaoise team from the venue following the disturbance in what remains one of the most regrettable incidents in the club’s history.

The Portlaoise team in the final was: Sean Delaney, Tommy Coughlan, Seamus Doran, Henry Carroll, Hugh Bracken, P.J. Payne, Mick Dalton, Pat Kehoe, Danny Timmons, Gus Hayes, Paddy Kelly, Liam Carroll and Gerry McCormack. Sub: Tony Dunne.

Despite the unfortunate conclusion to the hurling final, Portlaoise secured another Under 16 football and hurling double and further strengthened a generation of players who would help shape future success for The Town.

1964 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship

First ever Under 21 football championship success

Portlaoise created another important milestone in club history by winning the inaugural Laois Under 21 Football Championship, securing The Town’s first title at the newly introduced grade. The campaign further highlighted the strength of juvenile and emerging adult football structures developing within the club during the mid-1960s.

Portlaoise had reached the final after defeating Portarlington by 4-11 to 0-3 in an earlier round before overcoming Emo by 2-9 to 1-7 in the semi-final to qualify for the county decider against Timahoe.

The delayed final eventually took place on Saturday, September 3, 1966 and proved a hugely entertaining contest. Playing with the assistance of the breeze, Timahoe stormed into a commanding 3-5 to 0-3 half-time lead and looked in control.

Portlaoise responded magnificently after the break. Paddy Doyle drove the comeback with vital scores while Oliver Phelan blasted home a crucial goal to bring The Town level. Brian Delaney then edged Portlaoise ahead to the delight of a large travelling support before Timahoe struck back once more. Deep into injury time, John Fennell calmly converted the equalising score to rescue a dramatic 2-10 to 3-7 draw.

The Portlaoise team in the drawn game was: Pat Scully, Tony Conroy, Tony Maher, Seamus Doran, Pat Kehoe, Tom Walsh, Syd Harkin, Noel McCabe, Oliver Phelan, John Fennell, Cyril O’Meara (captain), Brian Delaney, John Joe Ging, Garvan Harkin and Paddy Doyle. Frank Byrne was substitute.

True to a growing reputation for replay performances, Portlaoise returned on October 23, 1966 and produced a commanding display to secure the championship by 2-7 to 0-5. The Town controlled matters throughout and built a strong 0-6 to 0-1 lead by half-time.

Two second-half goals ultimately sealed victory. One arrived from a goalmouth scramble while John Joe Ging struck the second to remove any lingering doubt and confirm Portlaoise as the first ever Under 21 football champions.

The replay-winning team was: Pat Scully, Paddy Fitzpatrick, Tony Maher, Don Phelan, Frank Byrne, Tom Walsh, Syd Harkin, Cyril O’Meara, Garvan Harkin, John Fennell, Noel McCabe, Brian Delaney, John Joe Ging, Oliver Phelan and Paddy Doyle.

First Under 17 football championship success

Portlaoise captured the club’s first Under 17 Football Championship in 1965, adding another important juvenile football milestone during a hugely productive era for The Town. The victory reflected the growing strength of underage football structures within the club during the 1960s, with a talented generation of players beginning to emerge through the ranks.

Portlaoise produced a dominant display in the final, defeating Portarlington by 4-11 to 0-3 to secure the title in emphatic fashion. Across the field, The Town combined strong defensive work with a sharp attacking display to claim a convincing county championship victory.

The Portlaoise squad was: Anthony Hunston, Tom Critchley, Paddy Conroy, Mickie Byrne, Mick Mulhaire, Hugh Bracken, Tom Keane, Kevin Fennelly, Tony Conroy, Ivor Houlihan (Mountmellick), Louis McMahon, Mick Carroll, Har Mulhaire, Sean Delaney, Tom Lalor, Ger Dunne, Seamus Doran, Danny Timmons, P.J. Payne (Mountmellick), Pat Keogh, Pat Dempsey, Donal Hoare, Joe Delaney, Henry Carroll, Paddy Kelly and Gus Hayes.

1965 honours

• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

Senior footballers retain county title

Portlaoise successfully defended their senior football crown in 1967, overcoming determined challenges throughout the championship before producing a commanding display in the county final to secure back-to-back Laois Senior Football Championships.

The Town opened their campaign with a hard-earned 0-14 to 1-8 victory over old rivals The Heath. Despite dominating large periods and creating numerous chances, Portlaoise struggled to convert opportunities early on, shooting eight wides during the opening stages.

Even so, they carried a 0-8 to 1-2 lead into half-time and held firm as The Heath battled back. Tom O’Reilly’s late free eventually settled matters and secured passage to the next round.

The semi-final brought another stern examination against The Rovers, an area selection made up of players from Killeshin, Arles and St Joseph’s. The Rovers led by 0-6 to 1-2 at half-time before Portlaoise found another gear after the interval.

Brian Delaney levelled matters before Paddy Doyle struck for a crucial goal which swung momentum decisively in Portlaoise’s favour. The Town eventually powered clear for a 2-8 to 0-8 victory to book another county final appearance.

Emo awaited in the decider as first-time finalists at senior level, but Portlaoise’s greater experience ultimately proved decisive. The absence of Jim Hughes through injury was a significant blow, but Alfie Lewis returned to the side and delivered a tremendous performance at full-back.

Nicknamed "the man of steel", Lewis repeatedly snuffed out dangerous Emo attacks and anchored a defence that gave little away. Portlaoise led 0-8 to 0-4 at the interval before taking complete control after the restart.

Tom O’Reilly added an early point from a free before Brian Delaney struck a vital goal. Mark Carroll then delivered the finishing touch with three further goals as Portlaoise pulled clear. Emo captain Brian Lalor netted late on, but it was merely consolation.

The final score read Portlaoise 4-9, Emo 1-7 as The Town retained the county title and further strengthened one of the club’s finest senior football eras.

The Portlaoise team was: Paddy Bracken, Mick Murphy, Alfie Lewis (Capt.), Syd Lewis, Tom Walsh, Teddy Fennelly, Syd Harkin, Frank Byrne, Mick McDonald, Paddy Doyle, Pascal Delaney, Brian Delaney, Tom O’Reilly, Noel McCabe and Mark Carroll.

1967 honours

• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship

Three-in-a-row senior football champions

Portlaoise completed a famous three-in-a-row of Laois Senior Football Championships in 1968, confirming the club’s emergence as the dominant football force in the county following the breakthrough success of 1964. The achievement represented the culmination of years of rebuilding, juvenile development and unity within the town after the difficult decades that preceded it.

The three-in-a-row was achieved through county final victories over O’Dempsey’s in 1966, Emo in 1967 and Timahoe in 1968. The 1966 final originally finished level at 0-7 each before Portlaoise won the replay against O’Dempsey’s by 2-8 to 1-4.

In 1967, Portlaoise retained the championship in emphatic fashion, defeating Emo by 4-9 to 1-7, with a powerful attacking display confirming The Town’s growing strength within Laois football.

The historic three-in-a-row was completed in 1968 when Portlaoise defeated Timahoe by 1-10 to 1-5 in the county final. The victory cemented the team’s status as the leading football force in Laois and marked the first sustained period of modern dominance by The Town.

Among the established stars of the period were Paddy Bracken, Alfie Lewis, Paschal Delaney, Jim Hughes, Teddy Fennelly and “Rake” McDonald, players who had become central figures in restoring senior football strength to the town during the 1960s. Their experience and leadership provided the backbone for a younger generation beginning to emerge within the club.

The team of the late 1960s carried enormous significance for Portlaoise. It marked the first sustained period of modern dominance by The Town and proved that the club’s revival after the amalgamations and juvenile rebuilding of the 1950s had fully matured into senior success.

The three-in-a-row also laid the foundations for the even greater success that followed in the 1970s and 1980s. Many of the standards, attitudes and expectations developed during this period became embedded within the club and helped shape the Leinster-winning teams of 1971 and 1976 and ultimately the All-Ireland club champions of 1983.

Under 16 football and hurling double

Portlaoise enjoyed another memorable year at juvenile level in 1968 by capturing an Under 16 football and hurling championship double.

The footballers reclaimed county honours by defeating Graiguecullen by 3-8 to 1-4 in the county final. It marked the return of the title to The Town and highlighted another talented generation emerging through the ranks.

Among those who caught the eye for the future was Eamonn Whelan, who impressed greatly during the campaign. John Dooley, Paddy Cotter and Noel Tynan were also singled out for strong performances as Portlaoise regained the championship crown.

The Under 16 hurlers completed the double later in the season, overcoming Mountmellick by 4-6 to 3-4 in a hard fought county final.

Portlaoise showed determination and quality throughout the contest to secure victory and add a second county title to an already memorable year for juvenile teams in The Town.

The victorious Under 16 hurling team was: M. Mulhall, B. Kelly, J. McGill, J. Kelly, B. Keogh, J. Phelan, J. Dooley, T. Murphy, N. Tynan, J. McDonald (Capt.), P. Donovan, N. Scully, K. Bowe, F. Kerry and P. Harding. Sub: T. Timmons.

Under 12 football and hurling double

In 1968 when the club completed an impressive Under 12 football and hurling double.

The footballers produced a series of dominant displays on their way to county honours. They opened the campaign with a 1-6 to 0-0 victory over Graiguecullen before overwhelming Stradbally by 6-11 to 0-1.

In the final, Portlaoise defeated Mountmellick by 3-11 to 1-2 to secure the championship title in emphatic fashion.

The Under 12 football panel was: Ray Delaney, Tom Prendergast, Pat O’Brien, Colm Browne, Billy Bohane, J. Delaney, J. McDonald, M. Rochford, J. Keenan, P. O’Riordan, B. Conroy, G. Browne, P. Lanham and M. Prendergast.

The hurlers matched the achievement by first defeating Clonaslee 6-1 to 0-0 before overcoming Abbeyleix PBS by 3-1 to 3-0 in the final to complete the double.

Included on the successful Under 12 hurling side were Mick Rochford, Billy Bohane, Pat O’Brien, J. Keenan, P. O’Riordan, Bernie Conroy (Capt.), Gerry Browne, P. Lanham and Maurice Prendergast.

1968 honours

• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

Senior football title regained

Portlaoise returned to the summit of Laois football in 1970 by regaining the Senior Football Championship after a determined championship campaign that blended experience, emerging talent and resilience when it mattered most.

The road back to county glory began with victory over Stradbally by 3-9 to 3-4. The Leinster Express headline afterwards declared, “Youth conquered by experience”. Portlaoise led by 2-5 to 3-1 at half-time after playing with the breeze and weathered a strong challenge before Brian Delaney, returning to the senior side, struck a vital goal to settle matters.

The Town team that day was: Paddy Bracken, Mick Murphy, Frank Byrne, Jim Hughes, Martin Parkinson, Teddy Fennelly, Syd Harkin, Tom Walsh (0-2), Paddy Doyle, Brian Delaney (1-1), Pascal Delaney, John Dooley, Tom O’Reilly (1-4), John Joe Ging (0-2) and Harry Mulhaire (1-0). Subs: Alfie Lewis and Louis Harkin.

A much more commanding display followed in the quarter-final against The Heath. Portlaoise powered into a 2-4 to 0-1 lead inside twenty minutes and never looked back, eventually winning by 2-10 to 0-7.

The semi-final brought another difficult challenge against Emo but Portlaoise advanced with a 3-8 to 3-4 victory. The game also marked the senior debut of future county star Eamon “Atch” Whelan, then just seventeen years old, lining out at left half-back.

St Joseph’s awaited in the county final and produced a tremendous challenge in one of the closest deciders of the era. Portlaoise edged home by 1-7 to 0-9 in a tense contest that remained in doubt right until the final whistle.

The decisive score came from Brian Delaney’s goal while Tom O’Reilly contributed four points and further scores arrived from Tom Walsh, John Joe Ging and Harry Mulhaire.

St Joseph’s nearly forced a dramatic finish but missed a fourteen-yard free in the closing minute, allowing Portlaoise to hold on and reclaim county honours.

The championship-winning Portlaoise side was: Paddy Bracken, Mick Murphy, Alfie Lewis, Louis Harkin, Tom Walsh (0-1), Teddy Fennelly (Capt.), Syd Harkin, Mick McDonald, Kevin McGill, Brian Delaney (1-0), Pascal Delaney, Eamonn Whelan, Tom O’Reilly (0-4), John Joe Ging (0-1) and Harry Mulhaire (0-1).

Subs: Mick Dooley, Jim Hughes and Frank Byrne.

1970 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘B’ Football Championship

First Under 17 hurling championship and Under 17 double

Portlaoise captured the club’s first ever Under 17 Hurling Championship in 1972, producing a superb performance to defeat fancied opponents Durrow by 5-8 to 1-0 and secure a landmark juvenile hurling success for The Town.

Writing in its edition of Saturday, August 5, 1972, the Leinster Express described the result as a major upset, noting that Portlaoise played determined and disciplined hurling from the opening whistle and never allowed Durrow establish control of the contest.

The Town’s intensity and workrate proved decisive as Portlaoise powered clear to record an emphatic victory.

Among those singled out for outstanding performances were P. Rochford, K. Daly, M. Delaney, R. Delaney, M. Gilligan, L. Timmons and J. Bergin, who all played key roles in one of the great underage hurling milestones in Portlaoise history.

The footballers followed up that success in style when they defeated Portarlington by 7-8 to 2-3 in the delayed Under 17 Football Final, which was played in 1973.

Portlaoise had shown their championship credentials throughout the campaign. They opened with an emphatic 4-10 to 1-5 victory over St. Joseph’s before overcoming St. Michael’s by 1-7 to 0-6 in the semi-final.

Several players were singled out for praise over the championship run, including Martin Callaghan, Kieran Daly, Brendan Tynan, Pat Rogers, Tom Prendergast, John Keenan, Gerry Griffin, Colm Browne, Billy Bohane and John Nerney.

Minor football and hurling double

Portlaoise completed another landmark year in juvenile competition in 1972 by securing both the Minor Football and Minor Hurling Championships.

The minor footballers captured county honours with a hard-fought 1-6 to 0-7 victory over Ballylinan in the county final. It proved a tight and competitive contest throughout before Portlaoise edged clear to secure the title.

Liam Connell contributed three points while Billy Bland added two. Tony Flanagan’s crucial tally of 1-1 proved decisive in separating the sides.

On their path to the county final, Portlaoise overcame O’Dempsey’s by 1-4 to 0-4 in the semi-final.

The championship-winning football side was: Martin Callaghan, Pat Murphy, Jimmy Bergin, John Killeen, Cyril Murphy, John Dooley, George Plunkett, Liam Connell (0-3), Jim Griffin, Liam Scully, Pat Keenan, Billy Bland (0-2), Tony Flanagan (1-1), George Buggy and Pat Rogers.

Subs: Brian Hoare, Joe Foster and Tom Prendergast.

The celebrations continued when the minor hurlers delivered an emphatic performance to defeat Ballinakill by 7-5 to 1-4 in a one-sided county final.

Portlaoise controlled the contest throughout and built a commanding 3-3 to 0-2 lead by half-time before pulling further clear after the restart.

Earlier in the championship, The Town had shown their quality by overcoming Errill in a dramatic semi-final on a scoreline of 6-3 to 5-2.

The Minor Hurling Championship winning side was: Philip Rochford (Capt.), Tom Scully, T. Dunne, John Killeen, Brendan Tynan, Mark Delaney, Martin Gilligan, Pat Keenan, Pat Murphy, Liam Harney, Liam Cushen, Hugh Rochford, L. Murphy, J. Bergin and Liam Connell.

Subs: Jim Griffin and John Dooley.

Under 12 double champions again

Portlaoise’s strength at juvenile level continued in 1972 as the club once again secured an Under 12 football and hurling double, producing another outstanding generation of young players for The Town.

The hurlers captured county honours with a 6-1 to 3-0 victory over Abbeyleix in the county final.

Among the standout performers for Portlaoise were J. Coughlan, G. O’Brien, P. Critchley, Martin Conroy, M. Bohane and G. Phelan.

The footballers were equally dominant, producing an excellent display to defeat St. Joseph’s by 6-5 to 0-1 in the county final.

Best for Portlaoise were P. J. Bunyan, S. Dunne, J. Lewis, P. Roe, S. Smith, J. Carroll and J. Keogh.

The footballers had impressed throughout the campaign. They defeated The Heath by 2-8 to 0-3 before edging Ballyroan by 1-7 to 1-6 in the Area Final.

Portlaoise then overcame Mountrath by 1-6 to 1-2 in the semi-final to book their place in the county decider.

Success extended beyond Under 12 level as Portlaoise also claimed honours at Under 10 level, defeating Graiguecullen by 3-2 to 0-2.

Another football and hurling double at juvenile level reinforced the tremendous work taking place within Portlaoise underage structures and highlighted a rich vein of talent emerging through The Town during the early 1970s.

1972 honours

• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

Under 16 football and hurling double

Portlaoise completed another remarkable juvenile double in 1974 by capturing both the Under 16 Football and Under 16 Hurling county championships.

The Under 16 hurlers secured county honours by defeating Abbeyleix in the final, while the footballers completed the double by overcoming Mountmellick in the Under 16 Football Final.

Several players were noted for their performances across the successful campaigns including Seamus Brennan, Donal Dunne, Maurice Prendergast, Seamus Plunkett, Ger Conroy, Gerry Browne and Tom McEvoy.

1974 honours

• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘B’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship

A second Leinster crown for The Town

Portlaoise returned to the summit of Leinster club football in 1976, capturing a second provincial title and confirming that the success of the early 1970s had not been a once-off achievement. The victory further established The Town as one of the leading club football powers in Leinster.

The Leinster final was played in Croke Park, a major occasion for the club and supporters who travelled in huge numbers to Dublin. Portlaoise produced an outstanding performance to defeat Cooley Kickhams of Louth by 1-12 to 0-08, securing the provincial title in style on Gaelic games’ biggest stage.

The triumph came during an era when the club was building remarkable consistency at senior level. Following the breakthrough county title of 1964 and the famous Leinster success of 1971/72, Portlaoise had developed a strong winning culture built around disciplined training and a fierce sense of pride in representing the town.

The 1976 team combined hardened championship experience with the next wave of emerging Portlaoise footballers who had grown up inspired by the successes of the previous decade.

The Town’s run eventually came to an end in the All-Ireland semi-final, where Portlaoise were defeated by Austin Stacks of Kerry in O’Moore Park. Although disappointed to fall short of an All-Ireland final appearance, the campaign further elevated the status of the club nationally and helped strengthen the belief that Portlaoise could compete with the strongest clubs in Ireland.

First Féile na nGael title

A landmark achievement arrived in 1976 when Portlaoise captured the club’s first ever Féile na nGael hurling title at Under 14 level.

Portlaoise defeated Rathdowney in the county final to secure Féile honours and earn the right to represent Laois on the national stage.

The young Portlaoise side travelled to Cork for the national Féile na nGael finals, giving players the opportunity to test themselves against some of the strongest juvenile hurling teams in the country.

1976 honours

• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael
• Men’s Football – Senior Leinster Senior Club Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 2
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'A' Football Championship

Portlaoise plans for the future

In March 1978, Portlaoise GAA unveiled one of the most ambitious development plans in the history of the club during a major press conference held at the Killeshin Hotel. The event marked the beginning of a transformative era for The Town as plans were officially launched for new club facilities and long-term development that would help shape the future of Portlaoise GAA for generations to come.

The launch was attended by some of the most influential figures in the Association, including GAA President Con Murphy, Leinster Council chairman Paddy Buggy and Laois County Board chairman Sean Ramsbottom. Club chairman Teddy Fennelly outlined the ambitious vision for the project and detailed plans for facilities that would cost in excess of £50,000, a huge figure at the time.

Fennelly explained that while Portlaoise would continue to place enormous emphasis on nurturing football and hurling, the club now also intended to provide first-class facilities worthy of the growing town and its expanding membership. He stressed that much of the work would be completed through voluntary effort, reflecting the deep community spirit that had always underpinned the club since its foundation in 1887.

GAA President Con Murphy strongly endorsed the plans and praised the ambition being shown by the club. He described the development as hugely important not only for Portlaoise GAA but for the wider community. Murphy noted that a town the size of Portlaoise needed modern sporting facilities and highlighted the importance of clubs having their own grounds and amenities to ensure long-term success.

Murphy also praised the close involvement of local schools, particularly the CBS, and spoke warmly about the role of women within the Association. He emphasised that women were making invaluable contributions through fundraising, catering and club organisation and appealed to the wider business community in Portlaoise to support the ambitious project.

Leinster Council chairman Paddy Buggy said he was deeply impressed by both the scale of the proposals and the professional manner in which the campaign was being presented, while County Board chairman Sean Ramsbottom reminded those present of the visionary work carried out years earlier by Fr John Kearney in securing O’Moore Park for the county. “Portlaoise, it could be said, was coming home,” Ramsbottom remarked.

The development plans received extensive coverage in the Leinster Express under the headline “Portlaoise GAA to invest £50,000 in new facilities”. The newspaper detailed the club’s ambitious fundraising programme, which included sponsored walks, dances, field days, cabarets, festivals of dancing, juvenile fundraising drives, a continuing 500 Club and even “Armchair Horse Racing”.

One of the standout fundraising occasions during the year was a major tournament game between Laois and Kerry held in June 1978. Kerry, featuring stars such as Pat Spillane, Charlie Nelligan, Jimmy Deenihan and Tim Kennelly, defeated Laois by 2-8 to 0-9 in a game that attracted huge local interest and helped raise valuable funds for the development project.

First Under 21 hurling title and Under 21 double

Portlaoise made history in 1978 by capturing the club’s first ever Under 21 Hurling Championship title and completing an Under 21 football and hurling double.

The hurlers defeated Abbeyleix by 2-10 to 1-6 in the final. Playing against a strong breeze in the first half, The Town laid the foundation for victory by going in only a point behind. After the break, Portlaoise took complete control and powered clear to a seven-point win.

Earlier in the championship, Portlaoise had impressed with victories over Borris-in-Ossory by 1-22 to 2-1 and Ballacolla by 5-13 to 3-6. The title was an important omen for the great hurling years that would follow in the 1980s.

The Under 21 hurling team was: Bernie Conroy, Michael Critchley, Sean Bergin (Capt.), Seamus Brennan, Michael Bohane, John Bohane, George Phelan, Joe Keenan, Maurice Prendergast, Gerry Conroy, Billy Bohane, Matthew Keegan, Pat Critchley, Seamus Plunkett and Gerry Browne.

The footballers completed the double when Portlaoise defeated Mountmellick by 3-11 to no score in the delayed Under 21 Football Final, played in 1980.

Earlier results in the football campaign included a huge 12-9 to 1-4 victory over Stradbally and a 2-6 to 0-6 win over Ballyroan.

The Under 21 football team was: Maurice Prendergast, Brian Colgan, John Bohane, Dan Dunne, Sean Bergin, Bernie Conroy, Sean Smith, Billy Bohane, Joe Keenan, Eamon Conroy, Colm Browne (Capt.), Noel Prendergast, Jimmy Lewis, Ger Phelan and Gerry Browne. Sub: Seamus Plunkett.

Under 16 football and hurling double

Portlaoise completed another outstanding juvenile double in 1978 by capturing both the Under 16 Football and Under 16 Hurling county championships.

The Under 16 hurlers secured county honours with a convincing 6-4 to 2-1 victory over Rathdowney in the final.

Players noted for their performances included Sean Dunne, Pat Roe, John Carroll, Ollie Dunne, Ciaran Conroy and Declan Critchley as Portlaoise delivered a strong display to secure the title.

The footballers completed the double with victory over Stradbally by 2-6 to 2-4 in another closely contested county final.

The victorious football panel was: L. Dollard, E. Bracken, Mick Rigney, Sean Dunne, Kieran Conroy, Pat Roe, Michael Crossan, Mark Kavanagh, Pat Dunne, Ciaran Conroy, John Carroll, P.J. Bunyan, D. Dempsey, Danny Timmons and C. Dunne. Sub: Jimmy Lewis.

1978 honours

• Hurling – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'A' Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

Senior football and hurling double again

Matching the achievements of 1981 always looked a huge challenge, but this outstanding generation of Portlaoise players had no intention of slowing down. In 1982 they achieved the remarkable feat of retaining both Senior Football and Senior Hurling titles to complete a second consecutive county senior double.

The hurlers entered the season determined to prove that their breakthrough county title of 1981 had been no flash in the pan. Standing in their way were Errill, appearing in a county final after many years away from the big stage.

Played in Borris-in-Ossory, the final developed into a fierce and tense contest. Errill pushed the reigning champions all the way and led by 0-4 to 0-3 at half-time in a game where scores proved exceptionally difficult to come by.

At three-quarter time the sides remained deadlocked at 0-6 apiece before Joe Keenan and Jimmy Harding landed vital scores to edge Portlaoise ahead.

Errill responded brilliantly. Paddy Bergin delivered a dangerous free which found the net via Peader Cleary and suddenly Portlaoise were behind once again. A further Errill point stretched the lead and the champions looked under serious pressure.

The defining moment arrived when an Errill free struck the upright and Portlaoise broke quickly upfield. Liam Bergin burst through for a crucial goal before Billy Bohane delivered another decisive blow with a second major.

Four further points from Liam Bergin, Billy Bohane and Seamus Plunkett completed a dramatic late surge as Portlaoise escaped with a 2-13 to 1-9 victory.

John Joe Ging became the first Portlaoise captain to lift the Bob O’Keeffe Cup in consecutive seasons and Portlaoise were now firmly established as the dominant force in Laois hurling.

Scorers: Billy Bohane (1-5), Liam Bergin (1-3), Matt Keegan (0-1), Joe Keenan (0-1), Jimmy Harding (0-1), Seamus Plunkett (0-1).

The senior hurling champions were: Sean Delaney, Sean Dunne, John Bohane, John Joe Ging (Capt.), Sean Bergin, John Taylor, Mick Bohane, Seamus Plunkett, Joe Keenan, Pat Critchley, Jimmy Keenan, Billy Bohane, Liam Bergin, Jimmy Harding and Matthew Keegan.

The route to the title included victories over Ballinakill, Colt, Rathdowney, Ballyfin, Borris-in-Ossory and Camross before overcoming Errill in the final.

Following the hurlers’ success, attention turned to the footballers who stood one game away from repeating the historic senior double.

They delivered emphatically.

Portlaoise defeated Annanough by 1-13 to 0-4 in Portarlington to secure the club’s 15th Senior Football Championship title and complete another remarkable double.

Pat Critchley scored the only goal of the final while Liam Scully, Gerry Browne and Tom Prendergast each contributed three points. Noel Prendergast and Jimmy Lewis also added scores.

The victory represented far more than county success. Earlier that year Portlaoise had fallen short in a provincial final against Raheens of Kildare and redemption had become a driving force for the squad.

The senior football champions were: Mick Mulhall, Jimmy Harding, Jimmy Bergin, Mark Kavanagh, Colm Browne, Mick Lillis, Bernie Conroy, Mick Dooley, Billy Bohane, Noel Prendergast, Eamonn Whelan, Tom Prendergast, Liam Scully (Capt.), Pat Critchley and Gerry Browne. Sub: Jimmy Lewis.

Other members of the squad included: Pat Roe, Brian Rankins, Ger Rowney, John Bohane, George Plunkett, Joe Keenan, Eddie Conroy, Sean Dunne, Sean Bergin and Noel Scully.

Earlier championship victories came against St. Manmans, Portarlington, Arles, The Heath, O’Dempseys, Mountmellick and St. Josephs.

Portlaoise conquer Leinster once again

Portlaoise created another landmark in 1982 by reaching a second Leinster Senior Club Football Final within the same calendar year. After the disappointment of defeat to Raheens earlier that year, The Town responded in remarkable fashion, defeating Ballymun Kickhams of Dublin by 1-8 to 0-7 in Carlow to capture a third Leinster title, a provincial record at the time.

Played on a heavy pitch in difficult winter conditions, the game was a tense and fiercely contested affair with scores hard to come by. Portlaoise led narrowly by 0-3 to 0-2 at half-time through points from Tom Prendergast and Liam Scully, though Ballymun had enjoyed the assistance of a strong breeze and many felt the slender lead might not be enough.

The match was ultimately transformed by a whirlwind opening ten minutes to the second half. Joe Keenan produced the defining moment of the final when he latched onto a breaking ball and crashed a thunderous shot to the roof of the net. Energised by the goal, Portlaoise surged clear with further scores from Liam Scully, Pat Critchley, Noel Prendergast and Tom Prendergast to open up a commanding lead.

Ballymun, inspired by Dublin star Barney Rock, fought back strongly in the closing stages, but Portlaoise defended with enormous discipline and resilience. Jimmy Bergin earned particular praise for his handling of Rock, while Mick Mulhall, Mick Lillis and Eamonn Whelan were among the standout performers throughout the field.

Liam Scully lifted the Leinster trophy as captain as Portlaoise secured their third provincial title in the ten-year history of the competition. The victory set up a hugely anticipated All-Ireland semi-final against St Finbarr’s of Cork and became one of the defining victories on the road to the club’s historic All-Ireland success of 1983.

AIB Leinster Club of the Year

In recognition of their outstanding achievements during one of the greatest periods in the club’s history, Portlaoise were selected as the AIB Leinster Club of the Year in 1982. The award acknowledged the club’s remarkable success on the field, culminating in Leinster championship glory and the All-Ireland campaign that would ultimately lead to national success in 1983.

1982 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Leinster Senior Club Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Intermediate Laois Intermediate ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship

All-Ireland Club Football Champions

Sunday 20 March 1983 remains the proudest day in the history of Portlaoise GAA Club. On that afternoon in Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, Portlaoise became the first club from Laois to win the All-Ireland Club Senior Football Championship, defeating Clann na nGael of Roscommon by 0-12 to 2-0 and finally bringing the greatest prize in club football back to the county for the first time ever.

The victory ended years of heartbreak and near misses for Portlaoise teams of the 1970s, finally burying what many had called the “gallant losers” tag. The triumph represented the culmination of decades of work, sacrifice and rebuilding within the club, stretching back through the amalgamations and juvenile revival of the 1950s, the breakthrough county title of 1964 and the Leinster-winning teams of 1971 and 1976.

The final itself was played in difficult and unusual circumstances. The match had originally been fixed for Tullamore, but torrential rain and strong winds forced a late switch on the morning of the game to Cloughjordan. In front of an estimated attendance of around 4,000, Portlaoise produced one of the grittiest and most determined performances ever delivered by a Town team.

Portlaoise started brightly despite difficult conditions. Tom Prendergast opened the scoring after six minutes following a quick free from Eamonn Whelan and quickly added another score from the kick-out. Gerry Browne and Tom Prendergast continued to drive Portlaoise forward as The Town established early control, though nervousness in front of goal and a series of wides prevented the Laois champions from fully capitalising on their dominance.

Disaster struck in the 26th minute when Owen McManus managed to divert the ball past Mick Mulhall for a Clann na nGael goal. Despite having played with the assistance of a strong wind, Portlaoise went into the interval holding only a narrow 0-5 to 1-0 lead after shooting thirteen wides in the opening half.

Yet adversity had long become one of the defining traits of this great Portlaoise side. Facing into the fresh breeze after half-time, The Town responded magnificently. Eamonn Whelan steadied matters with an early free before Gerry Browne added another point to push Portlaoise further ahead.

Clann na nGael briefly threatened a comeback when Tony McManus converted a controversial penalty, but Portlaoise refused to yield. Gerry Browne, Liam Scully and Tom Prendergast all added vital scores during the final quarter as The Town reasserted control and closed out a historic six-point victory.

Though Portlaoise finished with twenty wides, there was never any doubt about the superiority of their overall play. The defence was outstanding throughout, while the midfield pairing of Eamonn Whelan and Mick Dooley dominated possession during crucial periods of the game. Mick Mulhall gave another assured display in goals, while Tom Prendergast top scored with four points. Gerry Browne added three points, while Liam Scully and Eamonn Whelan each contributed two.

The full Portlaoise team that etched its name forever into GAA history was: Mick Mulhall; John Bohane, Jimmy Bergin, Mark Kavanagh; Colm Browne, Mick Lillis, Bernie Conroy; Eamonn Whelan, Mick Dooley; Noel Prendergast, Pat Critchley, Tom Prendergast; Liam Scully, Joe Keenan and Gerry Browne.

When the final whistle sounded, scenes of enormous celebration broke out among the Portlaoise supporters who had travelled to Tipperary. The victory gave Laois football its first ever All-Ireland senior football title and secured the immortality of one of the greatest teams ever to wear the green and white.

The significance of the achievement stretched far beyond Portlaoise itself. The success inspired footballers across Laois and proved that a club from the county could rise to the summit of Gaelic football in Ireland. A civic reception was later held at County Hall where County Manager Michael Deegan described the team as “a splendid example to the youth of Portlaoise.”

The official opening of Fr Browne Avenue

Monday 1 August 1983 marked one of the great landmark days in the history of Portlaoise GAA Club when the club’s new GAA Centre at Fr Browne Avenue was officially opened. Coming only months after the footballers had captured the All-Ireland Club Championship, the occasion represented another enormous milestone in what was already the most successful period the club had ever experienced.

The official opening ceremony was performed by GAA President Paddy Buggy alongside Portlaoise GAA Life President Fr Matt Walsh, one of the most influential figures in the history of the club. Their presence reflected both the importance of the development and the deep connection between the club’s proud past and its ambitious future.

A huge gathering attended the historic occasion including Leinster Council President John Dowling, Very Rev Gregory Brophy PP, Rev Kingston, Rev Fr Tom Coonan, Br J.B. Howard of Portlaoise CBS, Oliver J Flanagan TD, Tom Colgan of Portlaoise Town Commission, Laois GAA President Tom Cushen, County Board chairman Sean Ramsbottom, past and present club officers and hundreds of club members and supporters.

The opening day itself became a major celebration of Portlaoise GAA. A full programme of games was organised throughout the day to showcase both the new facilities and the strength of the club on the field. The senior hurlers defeated Cashel while the footballers overcame old rivals Walsh Island in front of large crowds. A social evening later concluded what many regarded as one of the proudest days ever experienced by the club.

Speaking during the ceremony, GAA President Paddy Buggy paid glowing tribute to Portlaoise and declared that The Town “must be the greatest club in Ireland.” He praised the organisation and ambition of the club in both football and hurling and congratulated Portlaoise on its extraordinary achievements, including the recent All-Ireland Club title, Féile na nÓg success and multiple county championship victories.

The opening of Fr Browne Avenue was the culmination of years of fundraising, volunteer effort and long-term planning that had begun in the late 1970s. Huge amounts of voluntary labour were invested into developing the grounds and facilities, reflecting the extraordinary commitment of Portlaoise members and supporters during the era.

The new grounds quickly became the spiritual home of Portlaoise GAA and would serve generations of players, coaches and supporters in the decades that followed. For many members, the development symbolised the growth of Portlaoise from a successful county club into one of the leading club organisations in Ireland.

First Féile Peile na nÓg national title

1983 marked another landmark moment in Portlaoise GAA history when the club captured its first ever national Féile Peile na nÓg football title.

Travelling to Cavan for the second consecutive year, Portlaoise Under 14 footballers returned triumphant after an outstanding campaign that saw them crowned national Féile champions.

The following is the article from the July 16, 1983 edition of the Leinster Express.

"Portlaoise return triumphant from Cavan Féile"

PORTLAOISE U14s won the football Féile na nÓg held in Cavan over the weekend. This was their second year to travel to the Breffni County for the competition, and while they were ousted by a Wicklow side there at the semi-final stage, this year they made no mistake and played some great football in their five matches.

A very pleasing aspect of this victory is that it was truly a panel effort. Every member of the panel played at some stage or other and each one can be proud of his contribution to this historic victory.

In the first round game against Glencolmcille of Donegal, they had a rather comfortable three-point win on a 1-6 to 0-6 scoreline. They had six points to spare over their opponents in the next round, who were Gowna, Cavan. This game they won by 1-6 to 1-0. Their hosts, Mullaghorn, were next to fall victims to the Portlaoise lads who went down on a 2-6 to 0-9 scoreline.

However, although they had rather facile wins in their three preliminary games, Portlaoise caught a real test in Kilmallock, Limerick, their semi-final opponents. After a tough and dour struggle, the Portlaoise lads got the verdict by the narrowest of margins with the scoreboard reading 0-5 to 1-1 in their favour at the end of a hectic game.

This game stood to them well in the final, however, for they had equally tough opponents in the final in Monaghan Harps. They triumphed by 0-4 to 0-2 but it could, and should, have been greater. The forwards were guilty of poor shooting on occasions and were it not for the fine work of their defence they might well have been in trouble.

The full panel for the trip to Cavan was Richard Coss, John Keenan, Martin Ging, John Horan, Brian Fitzpatrick, Brian Rodgers, Donal Rigney, Owen McDonald, Gordon Conroy, Damien O’Sullivan, Mick Dallen, Niall Moran, Bernard Travers, Don Niven, Liam Hogan, Mick Parnell, Liam Horan, S. Brennan, David Gaffney, Kieran O’Sullivan, Garvan Carroll, Danny O’Loughlin, Kieran O’Reilly and Gregory Dunne.

1983 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior All-Ireland Senior Club Football Championship
• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 All-Ireland U-14 Féile Peil na nÓg Div 3

The great four-in-a-row of the Portlaoise hurlers

The early 1980s marked one of the greatest periods in the history of Portlaoise hurling as The Town captured four consecutive Laois Senior Hurling Championships between 1981 and 1984. The achievement restored Portlaoise to the summit of county hurling and established the team as one of the finest hurling sides produced in Laois during the modern era.

Remarkably, all four championship victories were captained by John Joe Ging, making him one of the most important and influential figures in the club’s hurling history. His leadership, consistency and determination became symbolic of the team throughout the four-in-a-row campaign.

The run began in 1981 when Portlaoise defeated Camross by 2-13 to 4-5 to claim the club’s first senior hurling title since 1943. The victory ended a 38-year wait for senior championship success and sparked a major revival in hurling within the club.

Portlaoise successfully defended the title in 1982 with a 2-12 to 1-8 victory over Errill.

The third title arrived in 1983 when Portlaoise overcame Camross again by 3-10 to 3-5.

The historic four-in-a-row was completed in 1984 when Portlaoise defeated The Harps by 2-14 to 1-7 in the county final replay. The victory secured the club’s place among the great teams in Laois hurling history and confirmed the extraordinary consistency and standards achieved by the side across the four-year period.

Uniquely, all four finals were played at different venues because O’Moore Park was undergoing redevelopment during this period. The 1984 county final carried additional significance as it became the first final played at the newly renovated O’Moore Park.

The team was guided by Jimmy Doyle and Tom Lalor and featured many of the finest hurlers produced by the club. The era also coincided with a stronger period for Laois hurling generally, highlighted by Pat Critchley becoming the county’s first All-Star in 1985.

The legendary “Double Double”

Portlaoise GAA achieved one of the greatest and rarest accomplishments in the history of Laois sport, the famous “Double Double”. In a truly extraordinary year for The Town, Portlaoise captured senior and minor county championships in both football and hurling, completing a feat that remains one of the crown jewels in the history of the club.

The achievement reflected the remarkable strength of Portlaoise GAA at every level during the era. While the senior teams continued the success that had brought Leinster and All-Ireland glory in the early 1980s, the club’s juvenile structures were simultaneously producing another generation of exceptional talent ready to carry The Town forward into the future.

The senior hurlers completed a historic four-in-a-row of Laois Senior Hurling Championships in dramatic fashion. Facing the newly formed Harps club in the county final, Portlaoise were fortunate to escape the drawn game with a replay after a major scare. However, given a second chance, The Town responded in emphatic style.

In the replay, Portlaoise raced from the blocks and had seven points on the board before The Harps managed a reply. With Mathew Keegan scoring 1-2, Billy Bohane contributing 0-5 and Mickey Bohane adding 1-1, Portlaoise powered to a convincing 2-14 to 1-7 victory. The triumph secured the club’s sixth senior hurling title and fourth in succession.

One week later, the senior footballers added another chapter to the remarkable season. Portlaoise entered the county final against Ballyroan as reigning All-Ireland champions and favourites to claim a record 15th Laois Senior Football Championship. Yet, much like the hurling final, the first encounter ended in a draw as Ballyroan, led by players such as Liam Irwin, Mick Drennan, Pat Dunne, Pat McWey, Jim Whelan and county goalkeeper Martin Conroy, pushed The Town all the way.

The drawn game finished 0-9 to 1-6 after Portlaoise fought back strongly in the closing stages to rescue the replay. But once again, The Town seized their second opportunity with ruthless efficiency. In the replay, Portlaoise dominated from start to finish and Ballyroan had to wait until the second minute of the second half to register their first score. The final score of 2-8 to 0-4 scarcely reflected the extent of Portlaoise’s superiority as they secured a record-breaking 15th senior football championship title.

At juvenile level, the club’s future stars mirrored the achievements of their senior counterparts. The minor hurlers captured their first county title since 1980 with an impressive 2-10 to 1-5 victory over Borris-in-Ossory. Paul Bergin produced one of the great individual performances in a minor final, accounting for all but two of the Portlaoise tally and firmly establishing himself as one of the brightest young talents in the county.

The minor footballers also required a replay to complete the clean sweep. Graiguecullen were chasing their first minor football title since 1949 and looked set for victory in the drawn game before a dramatic late intervention from Paul Bergin rescued Portlaoise. One week after his brother Liam had helped save the senior hurlers, Bergin struck a crucial last-minute goal after good work from Pat Dalton to leave the game level at 3-6 apiece.

In the replay, Portlaoise raised their performance significantly. James Fahy led the scoring with five points while a Paul Bergin goal and further scores from Liam Duggan, Ronan O’Connell and Tom Fitzpatrick secured a convincing 1-8 to 1-2 victory and brought the Corcoran Cup back to the county town.

Incredibly, replays were required in the senior hurling, senior football and minor football finals before the “Double Double” was finally completed, making the achievement all the more dramatic and memorable.

The legacy of 1984 still resonates deeply within Portlaoise GAA today. The achievements of that extraordinary season established a standard of excellence that inspired generations of players, mentors and supporters. The men and boys who wore the green and white during that unforgettable year ensured that Portlaoise stood proudly at the summit of both football and hurling in Laois, a feat unmatched before or since.

Under 17 hurling three in a row

Portlaoise continued their outstanding underage hurling tradition in 1984 by capturing a third successive Under 17 Hurling Championship title.

Camross provided fierce opposition in a memorable final that required a replay before The Town finally secured county honours.

The first encounter finished level after a thrilling contest, with the scoreboard reading Portlaoise 3-7, Camross 4-4.

With nothing separating the sides, a replay was required and Portlaoise rose to the challenge superbly, producing a strong performance to claim victory by 2-9 to 2-3 and complete the three-in-a-row.

The drawn game panel was: John Hanniffy, James Lawless, Noel O’Reilly, Paddy Norton, John O’Sullivan, Cyril Duggan, Noel Rigney, Matt McDonald, James Fahy, Paul Bergin, Ray Carroll, Donal O’Sullivan, Paul Conroy, Tom Fitzpatrick, Greg Norton.

Subs: Donal Conway and Martin Ging.

The victorious replay side was: James Hanniffy, Noel O’Reilly, Cyril Duggan, Paddy Norton, James Lawless, Matt McDonald, Noel Rigney, Paul Bergin, Tom Fitzpatrick, Donal Conroy, Pat Carroll, James Fahy, Greg Norton, John O’Sullivan and Donal O’Sullivan.

Under 16 hurling three in a row

Portlaoise continued a remarkable period of juvenile hurling success in 1984 by capturing a third consecutive Under 16 Hurling Championship title.

The Town defeated The Harps by 3-9 to 3-3 in the county final to complete the three-in-a-row and further underline the strength of underage hurling development within the club during the era.

The victorious Portlaoise side was: Bernard Travers, Martin Ging, Noel O’Reilly, Anthony Maher, Niall Morrin, Niall Rigney, Des Killeen, Cyril Duggan, Damien O’Sullivan, M. Conroy, D. Conroy, G. Norton, Dermot Bohane, D. McDonald and Kevin Kavanagh.

Sub: S. Bartley.

Portlaoise also reached the Under 16 Hurling ‘B’ Championship Final where Castletown narrowly prevailed by 3-4 to 2-6 following another highly competitive contest.

The Portlaoise Under 16 ‘B’ team was: Cyril Fitzpatrick, Sean Phelan, Raymond Coss, Gerard Fitzpatrick, Brian Fitzpatrick, Niall Kavanagh, Michael Phelan, Padraig O’Riordan, Eamonn Kirwan, William Claxton, Pascal Hipwell, John O’Sullivan, William Byrne, Paddy Cuddy and Bobby Bergin.

Sub: Brown.

Under 14 football and hurling Féile and Championship double

Portlaoise completed an Under 14 football and hurling championship double while also securing Féile honours.

The Under 14 hurlers captured county honours with an impressive 6-9 to 4-1 victory over St. Johns in the final. The Town attack proved particularly effective while the defence stood firm to secure another county title.

The victorious hurling panel was: James Browne, Fergus Dunphy, R. O’Sullivan, Kevin Lynch, Peadar Molloy, John Keenan, Garvan Carroll, Niall Morrin, David Griffey, Brian Rogers, Willie Fitzpatrick, Donal Rigney, Brian Byrne, David Maher and David Hanrahan.

The same talented group also secured Féile honours.

The Under 14 footballers completed the double in emphatic style, overpowering Stradbally by an extraordinary 8-13 to 0-1 scoreline in the county final.

The victorious football panel was: Gordon Conroy, Mick Dalton, Liam Hogan, Brian Rogers, Donal Rigney, Bernard Travers, Dick Coss, Des Killeen, David Griffey, John Keenan, Kieran O’Sullivan, Brian Fitzpatrick, Garvan Carroll, Martin Ging, Paul Brennan, Greg Dunne, Kieran O’Reilly, Niall Morrin (Capt.), Damien O’Sullivan, John Horan, Michael Parnell and Danny O’Loughlin.

The footballers also added Féile success to their county championship triumph to complete a remarkable season.

1984 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'A' Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Féile Peil na nÓg

A fourth Leinster football crown

Portlaoise captured a record fourth Leinster Senior Club Football Championship in 1985, further cementing the club’s place among the elite football teams in Ireland during one of the greatest eras in the history of The Town. Just two years after lifting the All-Ireland Club title, Portlaoise again powered through Leinster with a blend of experience, skill and championship resilience that had become synonymous with the green and white.

The campaign began with an impressive 3-10 to 1-6 victory over Wexford champions Duffry Rovers. Noel Prendergast led the scoring with 1-6 while Tom Prendergast and Liam Scully also found the net as Portlaoise quickly established themselves as serious contenders for provincial honours.

Next came a gripping semi-final encounter against Navan O’Mahoneys of Meath at O’Moore Park. In one of the most demanding games of the campaign, Portlaoise had to draw on all their championship experience and composure before eventually emerging victorious by 2-10 to 1-10. Liam Scully and George Phelan struck crucial goals while Noel and Tom Prendergast, along with Eamonn Whelan, played leading roles in another hard-earned victory.

The Town then defeated Kildare champions Carbury by 1-11 to 2-3 in the provincial final stages. Portlaoise dominated much of the contest and had effectively wrapped up the game by half-time when they led by 1-5 to 0-1. Liam Scully’s goal, combined with excellent scoring from Joe Keenan, Noel Prendergast, Tom Prendergast and Eamonn Whelan, secured another convincing provincial win.

The Leinster final itself against Baltinglass in Athy became one of the great club finals of the era. Played before an estimated crowd of 4,000, the first encounter ended level at 1-8 apiece after a dramatic battle. Portlaoise led by 1-4 to 0-4 at half-time but Baltinglass mounted a powerful comeback inspired by Kevin O’Brien and Robert McHugh. The Town looked to be heading for defeat until Noel Prendergast struck a vital equaliser five minutes from time to force a replay.

Tom Prendergast delivered a magnificent performance in the drawn game and was widely regarded as the outstanding player on the field. Alongside him, Portlaoise lined out with a team packed with club legends including Mick Mulhall, Jimmy Bergin, Colm Browne, Bernie Conroy, Joe Keenan, Gerry Browne, Liam Scully, Pat Critchley and Eamonn Whelan.

If the drawn game had been dramatic, the replay one week later was even more memorable. An estimated crowd of 5,500 packed into Athy ten days before Christmas for what became a classic Leinster final replay. Portlaoise, who had developed a formidable reputation in replay situations, once again showed remarkable composure and championship nerve to defeat Baltinglass by 2-8 to 1-9.

Tom Prendergast again proved inspirational, scoring 1-3 in a dazzling display of skill and creativity. Pat Critchley added a goal while Eamonn Whelan, Seamus Lawlor and Liam Scully also contributed important scores. Portlaoise built up a six-point lead early in the second half and although Baltinglass launched another fierce comeback, The Town held firm to secure the title.

The triumph delivered Portlaoise a then record fourth Leinster Senior Club Football Championship and reinforced the club’s reputation as one of the dominant forces in provincial football during the 1970s and 1980s. The 1985 campaign also showcased the remarkable consistency of a generation of players who continued to carry the standards established by the All-Ireland winning side of 1983.

The formation of the Ladies Football club

Another hugely important chapter in the history of Portlaoise GAA began in 1985 with the formation of the ladies football section of the club. What started from a single meeting and the enthusiasm of a small group of players and volunteers would grow into one of the most successful and influential strands of the modern club.

Interest in ladies football in Portlaoise developed rapidly from the outset. Approximately fifty girls joined during the first year alone, a remarkable response that reflected the growing appetite for Gaelic games among young women in the town. Such was the early enthusiasm that Portlaoise entered two teams into championship competition almost immediately.

Among the key founding figures was Tom Daly, whose work and commitment played an important role in helping establish the club during its formative years. The foundations laid by Daly and the early organisers created structures that would allow ladies football to flourish in Portlaoise in the decades that followed.

The establishment of the ladies section in 1985 marked a hugely significant expansion of Portlaoise GAA and reflected the evolving role of Gaelic games within the community. What began with approximately fifty girls and a handful of volunteers would eventually grow into one of the strongest ladies football structures in Laois and Leinster.

Pat Critchley - Hurling All-Star

In 1985, Pat Critchley became the first and to date only player from Laois to win a senior hurling All-Star when he was selected at centrefield following a series of outstanding performances for Laois. The award represented a landmark moment not only for Critchley personally, but also for Portlaoise and Laois hurling, recognising one of the finest players ever produced by the club during a golden era for The Town.

1985 honours

• Hurling – All Star GAA Hurling All-Star
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Leinster Senior Club Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship

A second football three-in-a-row

Portlaoise secured a historic second senior football three-in-a-row in 1986 when they defeated Emo by 2-9 to 1-7 in the Laois Senior Football Championship final. The victory delivered a seventeenth county title to The Town, their fifth championship success of the 1980s and their second sequence of three consecutive titles following the famous 1966, 1967 and 1968 triumphs.

The championship win further confirmed Portlaoise as the dominant football force in Laois during the era. Though reigning Leinster champions and All-Ireland winners only a few seasons earlier, The Town found themselves in a tense and rugged encounter against a determined Emo side who refused to yield throughout the hour.

The game itself never fully developed into a classic and the Leinster Express later remarked that the eventual five-point winning margin was somewhat flattering to Portlaoise. Billy Bohane’s late goal ultimately sealed the issue, but for long periods the contest remained finely balanced with Emo pushing the champions all the way.

Portlaoise and Emo were level at half-time after a fiercely contested opening period. Noel Prendergast missed a penalty in the first half, helping to keep Emo’s confidence alive, while Ger Lawlor delivered an inspirational display for the challengers and continually caused problems for the Portlaoise defence.

The Town appeared to take control during the third quarter when they opened up a six-point advantage through scores from Billy Bohane, Tom Prendergast and Eamonn Whelan. Yet Emo refused to disappear and a stirring comeback, inspired largely by Gerry Lawlor, cut the gap back to two points entering the closing stages and created a tense finish for the large attendance.

Ultimately, Portlaoise’s greater experience and attacking strength proved decisive. Billy Bohane struck the crucial late goal that finally settled the contest and ensured the title remained in the county town.

One of the defining performances of the final came from Eamonn Whelan, whose inspirational display at midfield played a major role in the victory. Whelan’s ninth senior championship medal highlighted both his extraordinary consistency and his importance to one of the greatest eras in Portlaoise football history.

Billy Bohane finished as Portlaoise’s leading scorer with 2-1, while Noel and Tom Prendergast contributed two points each. Joe Keenan, Eamonn Whelan, Gerry Browne and Seamus Lalor also added scores in another hard-earned county final triumph.

The Portlaoise team on the day was: Mick Mulhall, Brian Colgan, Bernie Conroy, Tommy Conroy, Liam Duggan, Colm Browne, John Taylor, Joe Keenan, Pat Critchley, Billy Bohane, Tom Prendergast, Gerry Browne (captain), Seamus Lalor, Eamonn Whelan and Noel Prendergast. Mark Kavanagh appeared as substitute.

The 1986 county championship triumph helped ease some of the disappointment that still lingered following the heavy All-Ireland semi-final defeat to The Burren earlier that year. After such a painful end to their national campaign, Portlaoise responded in the best possible fashion by reclaiming domestic honours and securing another historic three-in-a-row in Laois football.

Colm Browne - Football All-Star

In 1986, Colm Browne received one of the highest honours in Gaelic football when he was awarded an All-Star at left half-back. The award recognised Browne’s outstanding performances for Laois and further highlighted the remarkable contribution of Portlaoise players during one of the greatest eras in the history of the club. Widely respected for his leadership, reading of the game and inspirational defending, Browne was a central figure in both Portlaoise and Laois footballers.

Under 16 football and hurling double

Portlaoise enjoyed another outstanding year at juvenile level in 1986 by completing an Under 16 football and hurling championship double.

The Under 16 hurlers gained revenge for the previous year's disappointment in emphatic style when they overwhelmed The Harps by 10-3 to 1-2 in the county final.

It was a dominant display from The Town who produced an attacking performance of the highest quality to reclaim county honours.

The victorious hurling panel was: James Browne, David Maher, Richard O’Sullivan, Kevin Lynch, Fergus Dunphy, David Griffey, David Hanrahan, Niall Morrin, John Keenan, Willie Fitzpatrick, Pat Fitzpatrick, Brian Rogers, Conor O’Brien, Donal Rigney and Brian Byrne.

Sub: N. O’Sullivan.

The footballers completed the double by defeating St. Michaels by 4-8 to 1-7 in the county final.

Another strong all-round display secured football honours and capped a memorable season for juvenile football and hurling within The Town.

The victorious football panel was: Ricky O’Sullivan, Sean O’Neill, Pat Gorman, Pat Scully, Donal Rigney (Capt.), John Keenan, Fergus Dunphy, David Griffey, Niall Morrin, Brendan Conroy, Brian Roberts, Willie Fitzpatrick, Gerry Carroll, Pat Fitzpatrick and Brian Fitzpatrick.

1986 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois ACHL Div 1
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship
• Men’s Football – All Star GAA Football All-Star
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship

Opening of Club Museum launches Centenary Year

1987 marked one of the most significant milestones in the history of Portlaoise GAA as the club celebrated its centenary year, marking one hundred years since its foundation in 1887.

The following is the newspaper report which appeared in the February 14, 1987 edition of the Leinster Express.

This Friday will be another red-letter day in the history of Portlaoise G.A.A. club, one of the most successful sporting units in the country. That famous stalwart of former years, Jack Delaney, will perform the official opening of the club museum at the Centre, an occasion that will attract numerous well-known players and officials from former years.

It is fitting that Jack has been given the honour, because no one has worked harder in the fund-raising effort to develop facilities, and his family have all given tremendous service to the club. The Centre has been recently named Áras Uí Dhuibhlinne, in memory of one of the club’s greats, Pascal Delaney, who died a short time ago.

The opening of the museum marks another milestone in the history of the club, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. In recent years, the hurlers and footballers have dominated the county scene, winning five senior football and four senior hurling titles in the past six seasons. The club has won four Leinster titles and the All-Ireland Club Football title in 1983, and for their progress on and off the field were awarded the Leinster Club of the Year.

But success is not confined to recent years. As early as 1889, Portlaoise left its mark on the national scene. The club has the distinction of winning the Leinster semi-final and final on the same day that year, and then contesting the All-Ireland final (representing Laois) on the following Sunday.

One hundred years down the road, the club has gone from strength to strength. Many great memories of yesteryear will be recalled on Friday night. All available photographs of Portlaoise players and teams have been copied and will go on display. Cups, medals and trophies have been donated, along with interesting items such as old playing gear, football boots, jerseys and so on.

The main motivators behind the museum are Assistant Secretary Laura Bergin and Kevin Farrell, who have co-ordinated the effort. They have been busy over the past few months collecting items of interest and are eager to continue the collection. Anyone with anything of value to contribute is encouraged to do so, ensuring that these items will have lasting value.

The opening of the museum completes the current development at the Portlaoise G.A.A. Centre. The Centre was opened in 1981 after four years of fund-raising. The Development Committee were responsible for the entire project under the excellent stewardship of Chairman Paudge Dowling, who devoted many years on an almost full-time basis to steer the project, bringing Portlaoise into the modern age in terms of facilities.

He was supported by a strong team including Secretary Brian Delaney, Financial Controller the late and great Jimmy Cotter, and Planning Officer Sean Mullins. Fund-raising went hand in hand with development, and when the Centre was opened at an estimated cost of £200,000, the debt had almost been cleared.

The club has since acquired further land, and there are plans to develop additional fields and facilities. These latest expansions have brought renewed pressure on the club’s finances, and it is hoped that this burden will be brought under control during this centenary year.

Portlaoise G.A.A. has played a major role in the development of the community as well as the G.A.A. in the county town. It has been one of the most famous nurseries of young hurlers and footballers in the country, and many players who have come through its ranks have gone on to become household names on Leinster and other representative teams.

Last year, one of its famous sons, Pat Critchley, became the club’s first Laois All-Star, winning the award for hurling, while this year Colm Browne became the first Laois footballer to win an All-Star.

It is planned to publish a club history during the year, which promises to be a best-seller even before the book has been compiled.

Apart from the opening of the museum, there is an exciting night of celebrations lined up to mark the opening of the club’s centenary year.

Heartbreak in the Leinster hurling final

The 1987 Leinster Club Senior Hurling Championship campaign remains one of the proudest and most heartbreaking chapters in the history of Portlaoise GAA. In the club’s centenary year, The Town produced a remarkable provincial run, defeating Kiltegan of Wicklow, Kilkenny champions Glenmore and Offaly champions St Rynagh’s to reach a first ever Leinster club hurling final.

The victories over Glenmore and St Rynagh’s were regarded as major milestones for both Portlaoise and Laois hurling. Billy Bohane starred against Glenmore with 0-10 while Portlaoise overwhelmed St Rynagh’s in the second half of the semi-final to win 1-12 to 0-7 at O’Moore Park.

Waiting in the final were Wexford champions Rathnure, a side packed with county stars including Martin Quigley, Jimmy Houlihan and John Conran. Yet Portlaoise showed no fear and led for almost the entire contest in one of the great Leinster club finals.

Billy Bohane’s early goal helped Portlaoise into a 1-4 to 0-5 half-time lead, while magnificent displays from John Taylor, Cyril Duggan and Des Rigney drove The Town forward during a superb second-half performance. Paul Bergin, Pat Critchley and Liam Bergin also excelled as Portlaoise looked set for a famous victory.

With time almost up, Portlaoise still led by two points. However, in devastating fashion, Rathnure struck for a late injury-time goal through Nicky Hearne to snatch a dramatic 3-8 to 1-13 victory and deny The Town a first Leinster title.

Despite the heartbreak, the performance earned enormous admiration across the province. The Leinster Express described the game as “a triumph for Portlaoise and Laois hurling” and the 1987 team remains widely regarded as one of the greatest hurling sides ever produced by the club.

First senior football four-in-a-row an a fifth Leinster football title

Portlaoise secured the club’s first ever senior football four-in-a-row in 1987 with a comprehensive 3-16 to 0-5 victory over Ballylinan. The win also completed another famous county final double following the hurlers’ success against Clonad.

The first half was competitive and it took a Joe Keenan goal in the 27th minute to put daylight between the sides. Portlaoise led by 1-4 to 0-3 at the interval.

After the restart, The Town took complete control. A quick burst of 1-6, with Tom Prendergast contributing 1-2, ended the game as a contest by the 40th minute.

Prendergast added a second goal in the final minute, while Noel Prendergast also made a major contribution with six points.

Mick Mulhall won his ninth senior football medal on the field of play, a record in the code, while John Bohane was widely regarded as the outstanding player after dominating the Ballylinan attack throughout.

The victory gave Portlaoise an 18th senior football title, equalling Rathdowney’s hurling record at the time. It was also the club’s fourth senior football and hurling double, the first four-in-a-row in Laois senior football since Graiguecullen’s run from 1944 to 1947, and was achieved with the highest score and biggest winning margin ever recorded in the final.

The Portlaoise team was: Mick Mulhall, Brian Colgan, John Bohane, Tommy Conroy, Colm Browne, Mark Kavanagh, Liam Duggan, Pat Critchley (0-2), Karl Lenihan, Gerry Browne, Tom Prendergast (2-2), James Fahy (0-5), Seamus Lalor, Joe Keenan (1-1) and Noel Prendergast (Capt.) (0-6).

Only weeks after the heartbreak of the Leinster hurling final defeat to Rathnure, Portlaoise responded in magnificent fashion by capturing a fifth Leinster Senior Club Football Championship in 1987. The victory moved The Town two clear of every other club on the provincial roll of honour and further cemented Portlaoise’s status as one of the great football teams of the era.

The campaign itself had already featured drama from the opening round. Against Meath champions Summerhill, inspired by All-Ireland winning captain Mick Lyons, Portlaoise fought back to earn a 0-12 each draw thanks to a series of late James Fahy frees. The replay proved far more comfortable as The Town powered to a 1-15 to 1-4 victory with Fahy again starring.

In the semi-final at Carlow, Portlaoise defeated Athy of Kildare by 2-5 to 0-2, with James Fahy and Pat Critchley scoring first-half goals in another composed display.

The Leinster final against Parnells proved another epic battle. The drawn game ended level at 1-8 each before Portlaoise once again demonstrated their remarkable ability to respond in replay situations.

In the replay, Parnells made the stronger start and led by 1-3 to 0-2 at half-time after Brendan Brady blasted a goal to the net. Portlaoise had missed a series of chances but, as so often with this great team, their composure and championship mentality eventually shone through.

Tom Prendergast began the comeback with a brilliant second half display while Seamus Lalor palmed home a vital goal in the 42nd minute after another dangerous Prendergast run. Gerry Browne and Noel Prendergast then struck crucial late points to push Portlaoise ahead before Browne’s final clearance confirmed a dramatic 1-7 to 1-5 victory.

For players such as John and Billy Bohane, Pat Critchley and John Taylor, the victory carried extra emotion after the cruel Leinster hurling final defeat only weeks earlier. The football triumph helped banish some of those painful memories and once again highlighted the resilience that had become synonymous with Portlaoise teams of the era.

Outstanding performances came from across the field. John Bohane produced one of his finest ever football displays, Gerry Browne delivered an inspirational performance, while Billy Bohane’s accurate long passing and Tom Prendergast’s brilliance continually troubled the Parnells defence. Mick Mulhall also made history by winning his fifth Leinster medal in his tenth provincial final appearance.

The victory ensured that 1987 would be remembered as one of the most extraordinary years in the history of the club, with Portlaoise contesting both the Leinster football and hurling finals during the centenary year of the club’s foundation.

Four Féile na nGael hurling titles in a row

Portlaoise juvenile hurling continued to flourish in 1987 as the club captured the Laois Féile na nGael hurling title for a remarkable fourth consecutive season.

While details of the final scoreline and opposition remain difficult to establish, records confirm Portlaoise as county Féile champions once again in 1987.

The beaten finalists in 1986 had been Borris/Kilcotton, making Portlaoise's ability to sustain success over multiple seasons all the more impressive.

1987 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Senior Leinster Senior Club Finalists
• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael
• Men’s Football – Senior Leinster Senior Club Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship

The first ladies adult title

Sunday 2 October 1988 marked a historic milestone in the story of Portlaoise Ladies Football when The Town captured the first ever adult ladies silverware in the club’s history. Portlaoise defeated Mountrath by 1-09 to 1-00 in the Laois Ladies Junior Football Final to secure a famous breakthrough victory only three years after the formation of the ladies section of the club.

The following is the match reports which appeared in the October 15, 1988 edition of the Leinster Express.

"Ladies make it a day to remember for Portlaoise G.A.A."

In its 100 years of existence, many honours have been won by Portlaoise club with distinction, from county championships at all levels to Leinster and All-Ireland club titles at senior status, but on last Sunday week another first was entered into the annals when Portlaoise ladies footballers won their first title, junior football, against a strong and determined Mountrath side.

Led by their captain Cora Graham, this was an outstanding performance, with all sections of the team giving of their all.

The match started off at a hectic pace with Portlaoise scoring four points without reply (Cora Graham and Catherine Gavin 0-2 each), before Mountrath, after constant pressure, scored the first goal of the game.

With both sides playing a beautiful brand of open football, full credit must go to the Portlaoise backs, who withstood determined pressure, with Jackie Walsh, Mary O’Loughlin, Noreen Duggan and Breda Carter playing very well.

Jackie Walsh got the score of the match when a Cora Graham pass was finished to the net by a goal that would grace any match.

Both sides resumed to tackle a difficult breeze in the second half and only some excellent saves by the Portlaoise goalkeeper Paula Kelly stopped the Mountrath side from creating a major upset. Portlaoise, fired by her inspiration, went on to notch up five more points.

Mairead Ryan, Anne Duggan, Deirdre Fennell, Angela Keogh and Kathleen Tierney all added to a happy and historic day for the Portlaoise girls on a scoreline of 1-9 to 1-3.

Afterwards, the Portlaoise ladies were entertained in the clubhouse by the club to a dinner, along with the men’s junior footballers who beat Rosenallis to make it a rare double at junior level on the same day.

Trainer Kevin Farrell had the highest praise for the ladies, for their commitment and dedication over the past number of months at training sessions and hoped that when the team went to senior ranks next year, further honours would come to them, which would be richly deserved.

Portlaoise team: Paula Kelly, Jackie Walsh, Monica O’Brien, Breda Carter, Geraldine Whelan, Noreen Duggan, Mary O’Loughlin, Cora Graham (capt.), Kathleen Tierney, Mairead Ryan, Catherine Gavin, Anne Duggan, Deirdre Fennell, Angela Keogh.

1988 honours

• Hurling – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship
• Ladies Football – Junior Laois Ladies Junior ‘A’ Championship