Maguire, Fr Bennie


Drumscridian, Crosserlough native and former Cavan football manager Fr Bennie Maguire passed away at The Mater Hospital in April, 2011. He will be remembered for his immense contribution to the GAA as both a player and mentor. Fr Bennie was appointed Cavan manager in February, 1973, while he was curate in Drung, and he had control of both the senior and U21 sides, having come to prominence as manager of the St Patrick's College side that won the Hogan Cup for the first time the previous year (beating a St Brendan's side including one Pat Spillane in the final). He remained at the Breffni County helm for five years before resigning in September, 1978. Fr Bennie came from a strong football background, lining out for Crosserlough alongside his brother, Canon John, in the '50s and '60s - the club's golden era. In 1958, he paired Sean Byers at midfield as Cavan Gaels were beaten in the county final. At club level, Fr Bennie managed Drung and Castlerahan to junior championships in 1980 and '87 respectively. Guards of Honour were provided by the St Patrick's College Hogan Cup winning team of 1972, the Cavan senior county team of 1973-1978 and Crosserlough GFC.




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