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NION Summer 2017 Summer the original plan for the Review to appear quarterly EDITORIAL was soon shelved. It is certainly worth quoting from the lengthy editorial of that first edition on its raison

Welcome to this, the 100th edition of the Roscrea d’être: Review. Katherine Donovan recently unearthed a copy of the very first edition from Spring 1962, just ……for many people the image of the school union is a few months before the current editor saw CCR that of a collection of old fogies who meet regularly for the very first time. It was edited by the then Fr. to eat dinners and clap one another on the back, to Cathal Ryan the Union General Secretary who later reminisce tiresomely over the trivialities of their went to study in Rome before leaving the Cistercians youth, to talk endlessly and accomplish nothing… to work as a priest of the Dublin Archdiocese. …A pastmen’s union, if it is to survive, must present to its members an adequate motive for service and

As well as news of Branch events, College News and unite them in carrying it out. For this, the first News of Pastmen which have been staples of Reviews essential is to arouse interest; this is a minimal for decades, there is a very interesting article about requirement – people who are not even interested Fr. Leo Close (CCR 1948-’52) who, though confined cannot be required to act. to a wheelchair from the age of 23, succeeded in continuing his studies for the priesthood AND his For over 50 years, the Roscrea Review, under the athletic pursuits, captaining Ireland at the very first Editorships of Fr. Cathal, Fr. Dermot, Gerry Maher, Paralympics in Rome in 1960 during which time he South West Branch stalwarts Gerald McCarthy had an audience with Pope John XXIII. According and Cathal Bredin, Gearoid Ó Brian and latterly to his Wikipedia entry, he was one of the founders myself (aided on one occasion by Pat Somers) has of the Irish Wheelchair Association and its first attempted to give that sort of service to the Union. Chairman. He left Ireland for New Zealand in 1964, How relevant such a publication is and will be in an but participated in the Tokyo Paralympics on the age when information is instantly passed around the way, and was similarly involved in those sports in world via new means of technology is uncertain. The New Zealand where he was awarded the OBE for his Union’s website ccrunion.org, the various Facebook services to disabled (sic) sport in that country where and LinkedIn pages are able to connect pastmen like he lived until his death from liver cancer in 1977. never before. But while it can be an uphill struggle to get a Review published there is always joy when a

Reading through that Review one also finds a piece reaction comes by phone, letter or email from a CCR on the poet Desmond O’Grady by Gus Martin, a pastman in Ireland or in some distant corner of the profile of Gerry Culliton, then at the height ofhis world to his getting the Review by post or online. Rugby career, and mention of the weddings of Gus, Gerry and of Noel Kinirons (to Christine who of Long may that continue! Here’s to the next 100 course married Noel Windle after her first Noel issues! died.) Pat Hanratty – Editor, Issues 77-100 [email protected] One got a sense on reading the first Review that there was a lot of Union activity at the time, although

Roscrea Review 2 ROSCREA Review It is an honour and privilege to serve as President of Cistercian College Roscrea Union LIAM SPOONER for 2017/2018. I would like to pay tribute to my 58TH PRESIDENT OF THE CCR UNION predecessor Pádraic Ó Máille who steered the ship so well through a very difficult year. I would also like to acknowledge and thank everyone MESSAGE FROM THE years in the pre-professional whohelped in so many ways to keep the College UNION PRESIDENT era, and was on the Roscrea open and are continuing to work tirelessly in teams which won the Provincial helping to improve its facilities and increase the enrolment numbers. At its AGM on 10th Towns Cup in 1975 and 1980. He is presently part of the coaching There are various different groups of people within September 2017, Liam and outside the College giving a lot of time and Spooner (CCR 1962-’68) team of the Roscrea Minor expertise in continuing the task of supporting its was installed as the 58th Hurlers, who include some very the revival. To them all we say ‘Thank You’. President of the CCR Union. prominent recent CCR pastmen In particular I would l like to thank the CCR and present students in their pastmen who so generously committed pledges A native of Roscrea, Liam started ranks and who won the 2017 to support the survival of the College. We really County Championship. appreciate your generosity and to those of you who in CCR in 1962 and though he may yet have to deliver on your pledge. I would repeated 6th Year, Class of ’62- ask you to do so as these commitments are really ’67, who recently celebrated Liam has shown extraordinary needed now. their Golden Jubilee Reunion commitment to the College and Since September I have attended a lot of Class always considered him one of the Union over several decades, Reunions and various other Union events. It’s their own. His brothers Aidan often in an unseen and quiet really very encouraging and satisfying to hear the way. With the late Gerry Maher great memories and stories from pasmen of all (1959-’64) and Jody (1965-’70) ages. and his son Darragh (1993-’99) he organised the Annual Abbot’s Cup Golf outing for 20 years. He We can be very proud of the grounding we received are also CCR pastmen. in CCR and it is obvious that the College helped is currently Secretary and a Past in no small way in shaping us well for life with On leaving CCR, Liam studied in President of Roscrea Lions Club a great education and a set of values which has what was then Bolton St. College and is their representative on stood to us all. of Technology and later took the Pieta House Committee. We owe a lot to our parents, College Staff and in particular to the monks of Mount St. Joseph for over the family business, the As well as his son Darragh, the great start we all got in life. well known Spooners’ Garage I would like to thank the parents of the present in Roscrea, ever associated with Liam has three daughters Aoife, students in the College for sending their boys to the Volkswagen brand. Sinéad and Orlaith. the school and trusting in CCR. I must compliment the parents also on your interaction with all the activities both inside and outside the school. Liam was one of the most Great thanks is due to the Board of Management outstanding athletes ever to under the chairmanship of Ronnie Culliton for the grace CCR. In his early years great work they are doing. We as a group in the he concentrated on Hurling but Union are there to assist them in whatever way when in 5th Year his talents as necessary. a hurdler were discovered and A special word of gratitude to the College Staff he won Leinster and All Ireland who continuously turn out students who achieve excellent results in the academic area and in medals in the 110m Senior sport, music and other fields. Hurdles in 1968. He played As a local Roscrea man I regularly visit the with the very successful Roscrea Monastery and the College and always as I pass Hurling teams who won five through those “Eagle” protected gates I feel county titles between 1968 and a sense of serenity and gratitude that I was 1973 and was on the team which fortunate to have spent some time there as a student and for the many friends I have gained won the very first All Ireland since my association with CCR. Club Hurling Championship in We as Past Students need to keep the “Awareness” 1971. After the ban on ‘foreign out there constantly of our school by supporting the games’ was lifted in 1971, Liam College and Union functions and continue to help turned to Rugby and played Liam Spooner in any way. We need to encourage our relations, th for Roscrea and captained 58 President of the CCR Union friends, colleagues to consider sending their boys to CCR so we can increase the enrolment numbers Leinster’s Junior team for two thus continuing the great education in Roscrea.

Roscrea Review 3 ROSCREA Review Abbey Bread wins top Dom Peter Garvey Award for Cistercian Memorial Lecture College Roscrea Student. 27th April 2018 Manus Heenan, a Transition Year student at The College was delighted to welcome pastman and Cistercian College, scooped the top prize at the former Taoiseach Brian Cowen to give the inaugural recent National Student Enterprise Awards. Over Fr Peter Garvey ocso Memorial Lecture on the 23,000 students from 480 schools all around Ireland topic of the 20th Anniversary of The Good Friday participated in what is now one of the country’s Agreement. most prestigious competitions for students. It was a wonderful evening with an audience Manus’s journey began in September 2017 when comprising of students, staff, past staff, monks, the he made the decision to enter a Transition Year Garvey family, parents and pastmen. Brian Cowen Mini Companies’ competition in Cistercian College. gave an excellent and very engaging talk with He approached the monastic community in Mt St wonderful insights into the unseen work that helped Joseph Abbey with the intention of building his make the Good Friday Agreement a reality. project on the famous fresh bread that they baked for almost 100 years in the Monastery Bakery. The He paid particular tribute to the often forgotten role monks involved were only too happy to share their of John Hume over several decades. knowledge and with their help Manus perfected the recipe and began production of the bread mix for distribution. As they say, the rest is history!

We wish Manus every success in his future. As If being Ireland’s top young entrepreneur isn’t enough, Manus is also an accomplished musician, actor and rugby player.

Find out more about his journey at www.abbeybread.ie

Back row: Michael Garvey, Andrew Cody, Dom Richard Purcell, Sean Garvey, Pat O’Sullivan, Tom Garvey, Gerry Grealish.

Seated: Dom Kevin Daly, Kay Garvey, Brian Cowen, Dom Malachy Thompson, Mrs Jean Garvey and Mrs Mai Garvey.

Manus Heenan TY

Roscrea Review 4 ROSCREA Review Cistercian College – we need your help!

I want to say a huge thank you to international markets have So……. all the Parents, pupils, staff and been targeted. If you have made a pledge, please past pupils for facilitating the 6. Better standards of honour it……come to us, don’t turnaround of the College to date. behaviour among the boys. wait for us to chase you up We opened for business in late More responsible pupils are August 2017 which was the major a great advertisement for the If you did not make a pledge and priority and so far, heading into school. are now in a position to do so…… the summer term in April 2018, 7. CCTV throughout the College please come to us the College has been operating 8. Greater engagement with very well. A monumental amount Parents and past pupils If you want to help by way of of work went into the whole CCR so much more involved in effort or expertise……come to us project since February 2017and assisting the school with your suggestions and your what happened as a result is most 9. Positive atmosphere in the willingness impressive. school is in evidence and the boys appear to be happier If you can help us with our need We looked at what went wrong than ever to improve the premises……come and we have tried to address all 10. Welcomed back stalwarts like to us as we will definitely need all those concerns - we spoke and Marcelline Cody the help we can get on it consulted with past pupils, staff, 11. Greater choices with 7 day, parents - we respected and acted 5 day, day boarding and day If you can find a place for us in your upon their feedback - the Ship pupils. will, please make an appointment has been steadied. Here is a list 12. Academics very strong as we with your solicitor……don’t wait of the very positive outcomes to continue to feature strongly for us to ask date, not in any particular order; in league tables at the very top. If you have friends or family who 1. Strengthened Senior 13. Increased community have potential boys for CCR, Management team with the engagement with summer encourage them to come and addition of Pat O’Sullivan camps etc. have a look and Gary Halpin 14. Great sporting achievements 2. Better marketing of the such as 5 CCR boys on the College with a new brand Irish U19 Rugby panel. We need you now more image and guide, new leaflet, than ever! new prospectus and a new The final push is under way to website collect the current year pledges, 3. Better financial control, we are setting priorities for the with re-establishment of the upgrading of facilities and putting Bursar role, better practices, together a fundraising team. better value for money and much improved transparency But folks, that is only the through monthly reporting to start……..we have a very long the Board and trustees. and hard road ahead. We need 4. Better food and general your help now and will need it for catering for the boys, the the future, always. Remember, staff and indeed guests to the the community of Mount Saint College Joseph are no longer in the 5. Increased enrolments - position to underwrite the numbers for next September College so for the College to are currently up substantially survive and thrive, we need the on last year and well ahead persistent help and support of all of projections. In addition stakeholders of “Club CCR”. Ronnie Culliton

Roscrea Review 5 ROSCREA Review FR ÉANNA HENDERSON (1925-2018) March 2018 brought the sad the family rosary was recited, news of the death of An tAth as Gaeilge, each evening. Éanna Éanna Mac Ionraic, who would recall, with a glint in his passed away shortly before eye, that he and his siblings were his ninety-third birthday. not always easy to locate when He entered the Monastery the time for the rosary drew near, in wartime and was one of and that his mother would have the monks most associated to expend considerable energy with the College in the in gathering them all inside. The second half of the twentieth excitement around the holding century. He was a keen, and of the International Eucharistic often concerned, observer Congress in Dublin in 1932 was of social change, but he an early memory. Writing in the was also a reflective person Vexillum on the occasion of his who showed a remarkable golden jubilee in 2000, he stated ability to revisit his attitudes that the Congress left an “indelible Clongowes’ loss was Roscrea’s to political and religious mark” on him and influenced his gain. questions. A very proud vocation. In the same article he Dubliner who loved his recalled witnessing an Air Corps Éanna visited Roscrea in the early native city, he was, in many plane crashing during a display 1940s and was very impressed ways, a curious addition in the Phoenix Park, killing two by the kindness of the monks to a boarding school in airmen. This was in August he encountered. Cycling from the Midlands. Although a 1933, and it put the eight year- Dublin, he entered the monastery housemaster for over forty old Éanna off flying for life. The on 10th October 1943. Unlike years, he freely admitted world of his youth was dominated many of his brethren, he did not that he would have hated to by a tense international situation change his name on entering have been a boarder! and the outbreak of war. The religious life. These were the threat of invasion was real and hard years of the Emergency and Fr Éanna was born on 12th March he remembered bombs falling the monastic rule was very strict. 1925, the fourth child of Frank and on the North Strand in Dublin, However, the community was Josephine Henderson. His father where his grandmother lived. large and there were plenty of had been a Captain in the GPO He completed his secondary idealistic young novices. When Garrison during the 1916 Rising education at Colaiste Mhuire, recounting these early years, and was later a Commandant in the Christian Brothers’ school Éanna always mentioned the the Irish Army. Éanna grew up in on Parnell Square. He became felling of trees for fuel and the a large family with seven brothers acquainted with the Jesuit social snores of the other monks in and one sister, and often spoke campaigner Fr Richard Devane the dormitory they shared. He nostalgically and vividly about and considered joining that order. was ordained a priest on 25th his early years. He recalled a When explaining his decision not January 1950. The company and very rural Glasnevin, where the to become a Jesuit many decades inspiration of his fellow monks local church was a temporary later, he treated me to a hilarious was always very important to structure called ‘the Woodener’. impression of what he envisaged him. He found it difficult to see Religious observance and the his life would have been like men going off to establish new Irish language were central parts – “too much sitting around in foundations in Nunraw (1946) of his happy upbringing, and parlours sipping tea!” Certainly and Tarrawara (1954), knowing

Roscrea Review 6 ROSCREA Review that he would not see many of Pavilion or installed as Secretary in. At the end of a long visit, filled them again. of the Stamp Club, with Éanna no doubt with lots of storytelling, encouraging him along in the he took one last look around and In 1949 Fr Éanna’s relationship background. In later years he also said “Good old 53.” The horrified with Cistercian College began. acted as Spiritual Director of the owner replied: “This is 51!” He It was the beginning of an Legion of Mary praesidium. One enjoyed recounting this and other association that would last into of his pet hates was “jeering and stories at his own expense. the twenty-first century. His work slagging.” He was very conscious was always on the residential of the damage that nasty remarks Éanna was a highly sociable rather than the teaching side of could have on a boy’s happiness person with a wide circle of the house, as a Dean of Discipline and self-esteem. He always friends of all ages. He loved (Housemaster). He would have anxiously scanned the Vex conversation, be it with students, liked to have taught Irish, but for comments that might hurt parents, College staff, fellow rarely did. He firmly believed somebody. A sensitivity in his monks or past students. His that if all was not well in the own nature enabled him to spot it preference was for a long chat in dormitories, all parts of school and respond to it in others. which topics could be discussed life would be affected. In the in forensic detail from all angles. first half of his career only two At times Fr Éanna was prone These conversations covered all monks acted as Deans and they to misunderstanding what was manner of contemporary goings were kept busy ensuring that the going on, which gave rise to much on but were greatly enriched boarding school ran smoothly. hilarity. I am told that on a long by Éanna’s reminiscences of It was an all-consuming job and walk in the 1950s, some students times past in his own life, the time off was not a recognised ran into a shop and bought a College and Monastery. He phenomenon. Recreation, meals, bottle of Cidona, which was a new loved discussing history and study and dormitories all had to arrival on the shelves and was politics, and his knowledge in be supervised. Theft, so corrosive causing much excitement. Éanna these areas enriched the lives of boarding school life, had to be discovered them with the bottle of many students who sat with investigated. The breadth of these and, convinced it must be alcohol, him and discussed the issues. duties and the work and stamina went berserk. Four decades later, In the early 1990s he survived a expected of the Deans were thus the subversive Katz Concert - dramatic fire in his room off the considerable. Past students, always dreaded by the house staff Kids’ Dormitory, which broke including those from his early - gave rise to more confusion. One out during holiday time while years in the College, say that Fr sketch involved the house captain renovations were being carried Éanna always looked out for the dressed as a woman for a Roscrea- out. His accounts of the fire, his shy or quiet boy who was not themed ‘Blind Date’. It was all injuries and subsequent recovery interested in games (this in spite fairly harmless but Fr Éanna told were always delivered with a of loving all sports himself). His us gravely: “Well I never thought certain relish. It was another energetic organisation of whist I’d see the day when the Captain story to tell. drives, pushpenny leagues, table of the House would be up on the tennis, the Stamp Club and pool stage dressed as a prostitute.” Our Many friends and acquaintances rooms attested to his concern that protests were batted away; there will recall his epic letters, which everyone would have something was no explaining that it was could run to 10 or more pages, to do that grabbed their interest more innocent than he thought. usually written on paper he found and helped them to make friends. On another occasion he knocked lying around the College. When I The lad who did not want to on the door of a house in Dublin, once suggested that people did tog out would find himself in told the owner that he had lived not expect such long letters, he charge of the Ball Room in the there as a child, and was invited replied firmly that he liked to

Roscrea Review 7 ROSCREA Review get value from his stamp. These became less rigid, and he even men down through the years letters were a discourse on all went as far as saying that Pope and, towards the end of his life, issues that occurred to him - any Francis was challenging people that he had been very lucky to be College and Monastery news; of his generation to reassess so well looked after. Irish politics; the Church; social their assumptions and views. mores; world affairs; his family; His nationalism also became Although Vice President in his health; any visitors that had tempered with the passing years name, Fr Éanna had retired called on him or past students and he was delighted with the from a formal role by the time who had been in touch. The spirit of reconciliation that came I arrived at the College in 1997. letters were the paper equivalent with the visit of Queen Elizabeth But he was there as a friend of of a conversation with him in II in 2011. In similar vein, he the place and of its students, person – detailed, informative expressed the hope that he had keeping a watching brief in a and amusing. A letter he wrote not been overly strict in his early time of transition. On Monday in 1998 provides one example years at the College or caused evenings after long weekends he of his characteristic wit. Noting hurt to anyone who had attended would stand in the Front Hall, that 900 candles were being lit the school. his anorak over his habit and to mark the 900th anniversary of leaning on a stick, to welcome the Cistercian order, he quipped: In spite of his love of food and us back and chat to our parents. “I would prefer 900 novices!” his lack of exercise in later years, His memories of the school over he outlived many of his brethren the decades are preserved for Fr Éanna was an avid newspaper in the monastery, including posterity in Céad Bliain Faoi reader and in another life might close friends Fathers Peter and Rath, the book published to have been a journalist. He liked Bonaventure. Bonaventure commemorate the centenary of to get to the truth and weigh up and Éanna were an unlikely the College. In recent years he competing versions of events. He pairing, and very different would tell visitors that he was was forever filling showcases with characters, but they shared a waiting to be “called home.” In historic and philatelic items that number of interests including classic Éanna delivery he would he thought would be of interest hurling and most especially the pause very deliberately, ask you to the boys. He always regretted College. Éanna was not above if you knew what he meant, and that he never achieved his dream imitating his pal Bonaventure then state with emphasis: “to of establishing a proper museum on occasion, in the manner of an the Kingdom of Heaven.” Fr in the College, to house historical overgrown schoolboy who might Éanna embodied the spirit of items that he had collected and be caught at any moment. There the College and added greatly received as gifts. He donated was an unmistakable quality of to its unique atmosphere and many of these to the museums at mischief to the Éanna I knew, one commitment to pastoral care. He Knock and Kilmainham Gaol. example being his determined was a man of very varied interests and surreptitious purchases of and many enthusiasms, and he In a chat with Éanna, nothing the Sunday Independent when relished human interaction. Not was out of bounds for discussion, it was out of favour “inside” (as somebody who pushed himself and he could be quite probing in he would say, pointing to the to the fore, and sometimes his questioning! Although he was Monastery from the College). underestimated, he should be a vocal supporter of the orthodox There was also a very serious and remembered as one of the giant Vatican perspective on issues earnest side, and he gave voice to figures of CCR. like contraception, he was quite emotions and observations that prepared to respectfully debate many would keep to themselves. Mark Coen (CCR 1997-2003) such matters. In later years He was fond of saying that he had his views on human sexuality been privileged to live with great

Roscrea Review 8 ROSCREA Review FR ÉANNA HENDERSON (1925-2018)

Most CCR Pastmen will remember Fr. Éanna in his capacity as an understanding and fair Dean of Discipline. Many generations of sportsmen are however, more likely to remember him for his management of the CCR hurling teams and his enthusiasm in the role.

With all his interests and hobbies as described by Mark, Fr. Éanna’s true passion came to the fore when pucking around with the students during training. Indeed, students from the traditional hurling counties often expressed their puzzlement as to how someone from Dublin city was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the game. (Editor’s note: they obviously didn’t know that Dublin have won six Hurling All-Irelands, the same number as Wexford, and more than Clare, Waterford or Galway, and were beaten finalists four times in the 1940s, i.e. during Fr Éanna’s formative years!)

When Fr. Éanna joined the CCR staff in 1949, hurling was a simpler game compared to the spectacle that we are privileged to witness nowadays. Players did not wear a helmet or gloves and it was perfectly legal to obstruct an opponent (the ‘third man’ tackle). Tactics such as the ‘sweeper system’ or the ‘short puck out’ were unheard of. Being able to call on backroom staff or indeed a Hurling Support Group was never a consideration – Fr. Éanna was manager, coach, trainer, tactician, first aid man, supporter, cheer leader and any other job as required.

He got great enjoyment in travelling to matches with the various teams despite his tolerance often being tested on those journeys. Fr. Éanna’s brother, Ruairi was for many years, Aide-De-Camp to President de Valera. Much of the ribaldry focused on what the students would do to President de Valera when they got the opportunity – regardless of Ruairi’s protective role. Fr. Éanna just took it all with his usual equanimity.

Having won the Leinster Senior Hurling College’s Cup in 1946-’47, CCR was very competitive throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s. While championship success wasn’t achieved, CCR regularly put in thrilling performances against the Leinster kingpins, St. Kieran’s of Kilkenny. Along with Fr Éanna, long time teacher in the College, Rody Ryan was coach to many of those teams. Fr. Éanna manged the hurling teams throughout the 60s and 70s. Céad Bliain Faoi Rath refers to the 1960s and 1970s as the ‘barren years’.

While success was limited in the CCR colours a number of pastmen from that era went on to greater achievement. Jody Spooner (1970) was a member of the UCG team that won the Fitzgibbon Cup in 1977. Three of Jody’s team mates – Joe Connolly and Conor Hayes (Galway) and Pat Fleury (Offaly) later captained their counties to All Ireland success. Jody, along with his brothers Aidan and Liam won several Tipperary championships with their club, Roscrea. John O’Dwyer (1968) represented Limerick in the Munster championship.

Hugh McDonnell who joined CCR in 1970 took over the hurling baton from Fr. Éanna. However, Fr. Éanna never lost his enthusiasm for hurling and for all things CCR. He took tremendous pride in the sporting achievements of Shane McGuckian (Offaly), Seamus Hennessy, Hugh Maloney, Paddy & John O’Brien (Tipperary), Conor Phelan and Austin Murphy (Kilkenny), Stephen Lucey (Limerick), Redmond Barry (Wexford), Peter Garvey and Brian Connolly (Galway). This continued on to very recent times – Alan Tynan (Tipperary) and Jack Canning (Galway).

In part, their achievements can be attributed to Fr. Éanna’s legacy who carried the CCR hurling torch in a more challenging era. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Gerry O’Meara (CCR 1965-’70)

Roscrea Review 9 ROSCREA Review New Faces in CCR

Dom Malachy Thompson Dom Malachy a Dublin native who was ordained to the diaconate on 7th April 2018 by the Bishop of Killaloe is a member of the Board of Management since last year.

He joined the monastery in 2006, leaving behind a very Pat O’Sullivan lucrative career as European Gary Halpin DIRECTOR Sales & Marketing Manager with HEAD OF BOARDING Mr. O’Sullivan works actively Kenilworth Products Ltd. Gary joined the staff as Head with and supports the Senior of Boarding in January 2018, Management team in the College He tells his amazing story on the having taught in a number in developing models of best Monastery website of schools in England. He is practice and accountability. http://www.msjroscrea.ie/ fondly remembered in Ireland He also works with the Board of vocation-stories-brother- for scoring a try against the Management, College Principal, malachys-story/ All Blacks in the 1995 Rugby Head of Boarding, Teaching, World Cup, though this was his Boarding and Admissions Staff so As we go to print he is very actively last cap and saw the end of the as to ensure a positive engagement campaigning for a ‘No’ vote in amateur era in International with parents, students and all the referendum on abortion, Rugby. One of his first ‘public’ stakeholders. Mr O’Sullivan is a including on his Facebook page roles was giving an address to the graduate of University College https://www.facebook.com/ assembled gathering at the CCR Cork and taught in Thurles CBS profile. Ball in February and his speech before being appointed Principal went down extremely well. of Carrick on Suir CBS in 1994 Gary was also an accomplished and then Principal of Rockwell athlete specialising in the College in 1997, a position he Hammer and represented Ireland held until 2012. Since 2012 Mr in the 1987 World Athletics O’Sullivan has worked as a third Championships. level School inspector mentoring and training new teachers. Gary taught at St George’s Mr O’Sullivan brings a wealth College, Weybridge, Surrey and of experience having managed later at the Oratory School just Rockwell College with over 500 outside Reading where he was day and boarding students for 15 housemaster. years. Gary brings a huge wealth of experience and all will wish him well going forward.

Arriving at Clontarf RFC for the first round match in which CCR beat Wesley College: Marcelline Cody who is now back teaching in CCR; Pat O’Sullivan, Director; Catherine Smyth, Vice Principal and Board of Management Member and Gerry Grealish, Principal.

Roscrea Review 10 ROSCREA Review Galway Races and the CCR Ball

Two absolutely novel, one could guests including, Fr. Kevin of the Mr Halpin in his speech almost say unprecedented Monastic Community, parents, commended the staff and events took place within the past past students, staff members, students for their hard work and year. After all, it was a year of future parents and friends of the dedication and went on to say unprecedented events! College. that moving to Cistercian College Following on from the dramatic was the best decision he and his On Saturday 5th August last, 6 Nations Rugby win against wife Carol had ever made. the CCR family and friends took Wales, the evening began with The Cistercian College Roscrea over the Killanin Stand at the everyone in flying form, with a Parents’ Association thanked famous Ballybrit Course for the Prosecco Reception followed by all who attended and those who penultimate day of the Galway a top class 5 course dinner in the provided raffle prizes on the Festival. As the photographs beautifully decorated Ballroom night. The proceeds from the on pages 16 and 17 show, it was of the County Arms, which is Ball have gone to enhance the a day when people turned on renowned for gala events. Pages Health and Fitness facilities for the style in earnest. Full marks 18 and 19 show some of the style the students. to the Western Branch of the at the Ball! A special mention of appreciation Union for coming up with the Chairperson of the Parents’ went to the Loughnane Family idea – it was a coming together Association, Inez Heenan and the County Arms Hotel of pastmen, parents, staff and introduced the guest speakers: staff who made the event such friends of CCR from all over, PPU President, Liam Spooner, a memorable occasion for all. and to John Sherry and his team new Head of Boarding, Gary Those of us who have had class for the wonderful meal they laid Halpin, Chairman of the Board reunions there know well how on. With Breandán O’Rourke of Management, Ronnie Culliton good a venue it is, but this was at on hand as tipster we were well and guest speaker, editor of another level altogether. looked after – he even brought the Farmers Journal, Mairéad The Gala Ball Committee is Willie Mullins in for a Q and A Lavery, whose sons and father are looking forward to making this an which was most entertaining and past students of the College. She annual event, and recommends informative. Breandán even told spoke quite emotionally about that pastmen attend in even us a story of his talking to Willie her family’s long association with greater numbers in 2019! on 16th March, the third day of CCR. the Cheltenham Festival, one which hadn’t started that well for him. Willie eventually had his first winner that day, but talking to Breandán, the news he had just heard about CCR being saved gave him far more joy!

Another trip to Ballybrit is planned for Saturday 4th August – see the Union Calendar on page 35 for details.

Continuing that coming together of parents, staff and pastmen, the decision was made to celebrate the anniversary of the saving of CCR Members of the CCR Gala Ball Organising Committee by gathering for a Gala Ball in the Standing: Paul Davey, Willie Burns, Liam Spooner, County Arms, Birr on Saturday Shauna Meagher, Adeline Loughnane, Martin Mullen, 24th February. The Black Tie John Dunne, event was attended by over 200 Seated: Conor Loughnane, Ann O’ Connor, Inez Heenan, Marie Culliton and John Hanily.

Roscrea Review 11 ROSCREA Review London Dinner 2018

The Annual London Branch Dinner was held in the encompasses the whole of the UK. The London RAF Club, Piccadilly on the night of 16 March, the Branch is not only there for social events but to eve of the England V Ireland Rugby match held in provide advice and support to past students when Twickenham. they arrive in the UK where necessary. He also would like to encourage the College through The Guest of Honour was the Union President - Mr the Director – Mr Patrick O’Sullivan and Union Liam Spooner accompanied by Ms Nuala Callanan. Secretary Katherine Donovan to advise the boys on The College was represented by the Chair of the the importance of joining the Union through one of Board of Management – Mr Ronnie Culliton. Also its Branches. in attendance were Union Treasurer, Mr Pat Keane and former Union President, Mr Jim Keating. Following updates about the College by Liam Spooner and Ronnie Culliton there was a lively A total of 25 attended the dinner and included the discussion on the future of the College. wives of many Pastmen. After Dinner entertainment was provided by Ms The Branch Chairman Fergal Keane having thanked Ann-Marie Keane and this was followed by the all those present especially the younger members, customary raffle where the prizes included 2 tickets expressed the view that the London Branch needs for the following day’s match. new members. He also asked all present to spread the word to their contemporaries to attend the Everyone went home in good spirits in the hope that functions that will take place in the future, and Ireland would win the Grand Slam for the third time if anyone knows of anyone who has come or is the following day. The rest is history! thinking of coming to work in the United Kingdom to encourage them to join the London Branch which

Front Row: Ann-Marie Keane, Marion Keane, Maureen Moran, Manus Moran, Union President Liam Spooner, Ciaran Egan, Pierce Byrne.

Back Row: Nuala Callaghan, Pat O’Grady, John O’Shea, Dermot Hurley, Ronnie Culliton, John Yurky, Gearóid Ó Fallamhain, Pat Keane, Michael Meagher, Tom Keenan, Liam Nicholl, Matthew Quinlivan.

Roscrea Review 12 ROSCREA Review New York Dinner November 2017

There was a modest attendance of 14 at Delmonic’s day on 17th February, when the announcement was Kitchen on West 36th Street, in Midtown made that CCR would close in June 2017. He then Manhattan. These included Ronnie Culliton and his invited Ronnie to speak. wife Sharon, Roger Healy and his wife Catherine, Peter Kehoe and his son, and pastmen Des O’Brien, Ronnie suggested that a Q&A session might be most Paddy Boland, Bill Fahey, Tommy Lynch, Brian and beneficial but opened with a few words of summary Glen Adams, Dermot Cryan and Garrett Lawlor. – of the events in February to the reversal of the decision on 16th March and then on to all the great Roger had put the word around to everyone giving work that has been ongoing around the College notice of the event and he has also been in touch since then. He quoted from Pádraic Ó Máille, who with Fergal Cox and Ronnie Culliton to progress greatly regretted not being able to make the trip, the registration of CCR with the Charities Aid and in particular from Brendan O’Rourke who has Foundation (CAF). This will enable anyone in the reported that “the boys in CCR have never been US who wants to make a financial contribution to happier”. the College to do so by paying it into the CAF who in turn will pay this over to CCR. They take a charge There followed a great debate with contributions of 8% on amounts up to $100k, 4% on amounts from all quarters. Ronnie was very grateful for the between $100k and $300k with a 1% charge presence of his wife Sharon who could give of a applying to all amounts above $300k, but it allows mother’s perspective on the many issues that arose. the US taxpayers to get a full tax deduction for their There was, as Des had suggested, a genuinely warm contribution. Roger explained that CCR is almost interest in the College and a great sense of relief fully set up now with a final confirmation expected and pride in the group to learn that CCR is set to in the next few weeks. He would be in touch then “survive and thrive” for many years to come. They with everyone once this is confirmed to encourage acknowledged that there is still huge work to be done the execution of those generous pledges made in and the College is certainly not out of the woods for response to the call to arms from Pádraic Ó Máille some time to come. Many expressed their gratitude back in March 2017. for the visibility they now have on what is going on in the College, much thanks to the Social Media Des welcomed everyone, in particular the travellers activity and indeed the latest decision to circulate from Ireland and expressed a great interest among The Eagle to pastmen as well as parents on a weekly the group to hear of events in Ireland since the fateful basis.

Photo shows Ronnie Culliton in relaxed form with from left, Glen and Brian Adams, Roger Healy and Garett Lawlor.

Roscrea Review 13 ROSCREA Review Dublin Dinner 2017

The Dublin Dinner was held in the Alex Hotel on from complete is an inspiration to all who undergo 4th November 2017. Our guest speaker was the misfortune. legendary Conor Massey, an Honorary Life Vice President of the Union who regaled us with, inter Andrew Cody, a member of the College’s Board alia wonderful stories from Union dinners of the of Management gave us an update on the term’s past. All agreed that to hear Conor was alone worth progress which was extremely positive and well the the price of the Dinner! received.

It was also most heartening to see Kieran Fitzgerald Because we now have the Business Lunch scheduled at his first Union event since his serious accident in for an Autumn date, the Committee has put back 2016. Kieran, while in a specially adapted chair was the date of the next Dublin Dinner to January 2019. very much his usual self. His recovery though far

Guest Speaker Conor Massey, Union President Liam Spooner and Feargal Ó’Dubhghall and Kieran Fitzgerald and Dublin Chairman Paul Murphy. Andrew Cody. Katherine Donovan.

Rob O’Shea and Sean O’Sullivan. Brendan Phelan, Fergal Cox, Ronan Egan Martin Kelly and Joe O’Shea. and Charles Mc Goey

Oisin Heffernan, John Bourke Jack Culligan and Simon Meagher. and Marc Kelly

Roscrea Review 14 ROSCREA Review Dublin Golf outing 2017 The annual Dublin golf outing was held in Elm Park and giftvenue.com, the 2017 winners had really Golf Club on 23 June 2017. 51 golfers took part and beautiful prizes to take home. We are extremely some great scores were posted. grateful to Ronan and to our other sponsors of tees The prize winners were: or donors of raffle prizes. These include Abrivia Matt Hyland Trophy: Hugh O’Neill Recruitment Consultants, Comans’ Wholesale Ltd., Commtech, Elm Park Golf and Sports Club, Gowan Windle (Ladies) Cup: Barbara O’Mara Group, Graphprint, Indaver, Matheson, Mason Dom Peter Garvey Trophy Jim McMahon Hayes and Curran, Michael Collins Solicitors, Best Team: Hugh O’Neill, Graziano Romeri and Pat Coady. Michael McNulty & Co. Accountants, Nico’s Italian Restaurant, O’Callaghan Hotels, O’Connell’s Guest Prize: Fergus Byrne. Restaurant, Paddywagon Tours and Three Rock As a result of fantastic sponsorship from Ronan Capital Management. Cahir (CCR 1984-’89) of Beleek Pottery, Ennis

Paul Murphy presents the Matt Hyland Cup Chairman Paul presents the Windle Trophy to to a very happy Hugh O’Neill. Barbara O’Mara.

Kay Garvey presents the Dom Peter Garvey Ladies’ Runner up Yvonne Malone with Trophy to Jim McMahon. Chairman Paul Murphy. Dublin Branch AGM 2018 The AGM of the Dublin Branch took place on 26th Media / PRO - Troy McNamara (2004) April and it was almost completely a passing on of Treasurer – Paul Murphy (1989) the torch to a younger generation of pastmen. An Asst Treasurer - Tim Foley (2015) exception to that was the election of Liam Nicholl (1970)as Chairman with the officers being as follows: The Committee is already hard at work planning the Vice-Chairman – Sean O’Sullivan (2004) Annual Dublin Golf Outing which takes place this Secretary – Derek Masterson (2005) year in Elm Park GC on Friday 22nd June. Asst Secretary – Michael McNamara (1970)

Roscrea Review 15 ROSCREA Review Galway Races Gallery

Roscrea Review 16 ROSCREA Review Galway Races Gallery

Roscrea Review 17 ROSCREA Review CCR Gala Ball 2018

Roscrea Review 18 ROSCREA Review CCR Gala Ball 2018

Roscrea Review 19 ROSCREA Review Pastmen in Print Several pastmen have been busy in recent times producing a variety of written work.

• Gerry Moloney • Joe Buckley (CCR 1961) (CCR 1961) has produced a novel A Game of Joe Buckley (pictured below) is also Consequences is very appropriate an accomplished author, with lots of given the banking sector’s recent books for children to his credit. His history in Ireland. Of course Gerry at most recent offering, Fickle Currents one stage (long before the crash!) was deals with a situation that arises when a well an Executive Director of Allied Irish Investment established and well respected teacher in a co- Bank, and Investment Director of Enterprise educational school is told by his Principal that an Ireland. He describes the pressures on banking allegation of sexual impropriety has been made executives to meet targets and perhaps take against him by a female student and that the moral short cuts? Though Gerry denies it is principal has felt obliged to follow ‘procedures’. autobiographical, on reading it one gets a sense Thus begins an unforeseen crisis in the life of a of his own strong value system and even a hint man who had always found fulfillment in the backwards to his time in CCR. classroom. Read more at https://www.goodreads.com/ For more see http://www.gerrymoloneyauthor.ie book/show/39291231-fickle-currents.

At the launch in Hodges Figgis last October of “A Game of Consequences” : Joe Doherty, Peter Sommerfield, Joe Hoban, Joe Buckley, Gerry Moloney and John Joyce. All from the eponymous Class of ’61!

Roscrea Review 20 ROSCREA Review retiring from the role of Keeper of the Manuscripts. Gerard (Ger) Lyne • His first book The Lansdowne Estate in Kerry (Class of 1963) under the agency of William Stewart Trench recently published MURTAÍ ÓG 1849-72 became the subject of a major RTE a life of Murtaí Óg Ó Súilleabháin documentary called Land is Gold. Gerard was (c1710-1754) of Beara, County Cork, awarded the National University of Ireland Irish middleman, smuggler, captain in Lord Historical Prize in 2001 for that book. Clare’s regiment of the Irish Brigade in France, recruiting officer for same and (allegedly) for the Spanish army also. The book provides an exemplar of the complex interface between the old Gaelic order of the early to mid-eighteenth century and the new Anglo-Irish colonial establishment.

Many propertied Gaelic Irish families, albeit reduced to the status of middlemen, retained a deep devotion to the Stuarts. Shut out by the Penal Laws from secure title to land and access to the professions at home, they were forced to seek military and other service abroad. Published by A gathering of Ger’s classmates in the Geography Publications – see more at http://www. Dropping Well, Dartry, Dublin 6 in geographypublications.com/product/murtai-og- January 2018 for a lunch in his honour (to which the Editor was invited – thanks o-suilleabhain-c-1710-54-a-life-contextualised/ lads!).

The book was launched in the National Library From left: Tom Grennan, Tony Bardon, Ger Lyne, James Bardon, Joe Doyle, where Gerard worked between 1973 and 2009 Ted Forde and Pat Cuneen.

• Eamon Maher - (CCR 1972-’78) One of our most prolific writers Eamon Maher is editor of the series Reimagining Ireland. The night before the country became engulfed in snow and Storm Emma he launched The Reimagining Ireland Reader: Examining Our Past, Shaping Our Future, a selection of essays from the first fifty volumes of the series in IT Tallaght where he is a lecturer. The occasion coincided with the 25th IT Tallaght commemorative lecture which was attended by Uachtarán na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins.

Roscrea Review 21 ROSCREA Review REUNIONS!

REUNION OF CLASS OF monks, teachers and boys, CCR slang, and selective chronology of world, Irish and CCR events,. 1966 We were very sorry to hear that Ken Forde who had THE CCR CLASS OF 1961-1966 : travelled to Dublin from New York for the reunion, 50TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION - was taken down with a tummy bug after arriving in Dublin and was unable to join us for the reunion. SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER 2016 As we left Birr on the Sunday many of us wondered The CCR class of 1961-66 held its 50th Anniversary if the College would still be in operation for our next reunion on 1st October 2016. As this was the third reunion. reunion the others being our 25th in 1991 and 45th in 2011 the contact emails and postal addresses were After all the bills were paid, we had a small surplus of fairly up to-date, but Katherine Donovan ensured that €200, that we were happy to donate to the College we had all the latest details. The organising committee: orchestra. Conor Brady, John Rafferty, Fergus Owens and I held Tom Hope. a number of meetings to put all arrangements in place. Editor’s note: Space did not permit the inclusion of A reception was arranged by the College authorities this piece in the Summer 2017 issue on Saturday 1st October 2016 in the afternoon which was followed by a group photo and Mass in the College chapel. We were delighted that thirty six pastmen were able to attend the function, two coming from the USA and one from the UK . We were very pleased that John Shanahan was able to join us at the College for the reception and Mass. We were honoured that Dom Kevin Daly celebrated the Mass and Liam Mulcahy performed the readings and prayer of the faithful (Liam unfortunately passed away after a short illness in April 2017). Dom Kevin shared some memories of his first year in the college trying to manage us.

After the Mass we headed to the County Arms in Birr to view the replay of the All Ireland Football Final between Dublin (1-15) and Mayo (1-14) which (slightly) disrupted our plans.

We had a most enjoyable meal and evening, and were delighted that Frank Thompson (then Chairman, College Board of Management) was able to join us as a guest and brought us up to date on the challenges that the low student numbers were creating for the college. Current Union President Liam Spooner We had a souvenir booklet for all attendees, comprising with Preseident Elect and of group College photographs, recollections of Fergus Owens, Tony Bennett (UK), Kieran Moran (Aus), Ken London Branch Chairman Forde (NY) and Conn Foley (NY), the nicknames of Fergal Keane.

Roscrea Review 22 ROSCREA Review happy times of many a Sunday lunch spent there. CLASS OF 1992 25Y Special thanks must go to Conor, Barry and Willie for being such gracious hosts yet again. REUNION A canape reception awaited the hordes in the County Arms, which was washed down with some Guinness for The Class of 92 centres on the rise of a group of good measure – you can take the boy out of Roscrea…. talented young men to the top of their profession We were then joined by Brendan O’Rourke and Pat before conquering Europe – there certainly are a lot Sheedy for a wonderful 4-course meal in the County of similarities between the Cistercian College Class of Arms - no one was fit to do anything but roll down to 1992 and the more famous Manchester United Class the bar afterwards! I said a few words at the end of the of 92; but give me my classmates over Becks and Gary meal to thank everyone for making it along and shared Neville any day of the week! We gathered for our 25 my experiences with the Save CCR campaign earlier in Year Reunion on September 9th, 2017, and what a the year. weekend we all had. 2017 will go down as a historic year of rebirth for Cistercian College and everyone was 28 hardy souls came back for the Reunion, which was interested to see how the new reawakening of the school a good showing given 60 finished 6th Year. We have is progressing. A decent cohort assembled to enjoy the had 10yr, 15yr and 20yr reunions so are well used to excellent reception at the college. Special praise must each other at this stage! It is always remarkable how go to Katherine Donovan, the College Alumni Officer, quickly it takes us to get comfortable in each other’s for organising the afternoon. After an hour or so of company and remember the hilarious stories, even if remembering the good old days, the College Director most of them have an element of “fake news” about Pat O’Sullivan addressed the congregation and spoke them given they have been embellished so much at with great gusto about the strides the college has made this stage! this year. The Chairman of the Board of Management, the great Ronnie Culliton, also spoke with passion The party went on well into the early hours of the about what is needed to return the school to a picture morning and the Loughnanes were also present right of health once again. Gerry Hayes then treated us to a to the bitter end, which was great to see. wonderful tour of the campus. We were particularly jealous of the sports hall, thinking back to how much Thanks to Maurice Phelan for helping me organise we would have enjoyed availing of the facility during the whole event – I couldn’t have done it without the cold winter months of the early 1990s!! him that’s for sure. Thanks to Katherine Donovan for sharing the list and organising festivities at the college After the tour of the College, we sprinted back to the and finally thanks to the Loughnanes once again for spiritual home of Cistercian College past students making us feel at home and putting on such a show. young and old, the County Arms in Birr. As is always the case with the Loughnanes, the red carpet was Bring on the 30Y in Birr in 2022!! rolled out for us and we all enjoyed remembering Fergal Cox, Class of 1992.

Back Row (Right to Left): David Lawlor, Fergal Cox, David Ryan, Shane O’Neill, Richard Mooney, Peter Ormond, Mark McGrane, Declan McNulty, Brian Hogan, Mark O’Byrne, Padraig McGillicuddy, John Ryan, James Lee, Hugh Liston, Barry McCormack, Jonathan Quinn, Michael Kennedy, Dara Waldron, Brian Brosnan, Dermot Dwan, Karl O’Sullivan Front Row (Right to Left): Frank O’Hara, Michael Dooley, Maurice Phelan, Geoff Barry, John O’Carroll.

Roscrea Review 23 ROSCREA Review CLASS OF ’62 REUNION (one of our classmates) celebrated Mass during which we prayed for those who could not be present - some SEPTEMBER 2017 due to a higher calling, some due to poor health and some due to other engagements. All were fondly As 55 years had passed since our departure from remembered. CCR it was decided to hold a class reunion this year - we had managed 25, 40 and 50 year anniversaries. We adjourned to Birr for a reception with canapés This reunion as before was held at the College with and a 4 course feed served with appropriate wines and a dinner to follow in The County Arms Hotel Birr. A other beverages of choice. Having finally recovered select group assembled in the Billiard Room (now the from the surprise and now being able to identify all Centenary Room) at the College. Katherine Donovan present, a wonderful evening followed. The Union kindly arranged the service of tea sandwiches and cake President Liam Spooner joined us for dinner and to sustain us for the afternoon. provided further evidence of the resolve there is to preserve the old school. The academic, sporting and Ronnie Culliton had agreed to provide an update other achievements are testament to the good work following the shocking news earlier in the year of the of the college and teaching staff. Of course the monks threatened closure of CCR and the subsequent Save who provided much of the educational and other CCR campaign. The college is saved for now but much leadership during our time are greatly diminished in effort remains required to secure the school for the numbers. future. Only time will tell. Les Faughnan was unable to join in the College and Each pastman present was very kindly provided with dinner activities but had travelled from Sligo to Birr so a complementary copy of Lumen Christi a profusely we met him the following day for a drink and sandwich illustrated book by Dom Laurence Walsh “The Stained in “Kelly’s on the Green.” He hasn’t changed and Glass Windows of Mount Saint Joseph’s Abbey”. still looks the part of Hamlet one of the great school A number of present pupils agreed to conduct us productions from the early 60s. So some 24hours after on a tour of the school to admire the additions and meeting we were for the road again. Having arrived improvements since our day. Much comment centred in 1957 for the unthinkable period of 5 long years we on the lack of the hard edge that we had endured! parted with the thought that 60 years had just slipped by, and decided we would need to repeat the weekend We assembled on the steps for a photo call and then at ever shorter intervals in the future. adjourned to the College Chapel where Fr. John Garry John Yurky (CCR 1957-’62)

Union President Liam Spooner presents the Union Gold medal to Bill Burns who achieved the best result in last year’s Junior Certificate examination. In the photos are College Principal Gerry Grealish, along with Bill’s parents Helen and Willie and his sister Lizzie.

Roscrea Review 24 ROSCREA Review CLASS OF ‘97 REUNION

Top step (L-R): Alex Wilsdon, Ray Hanniffy, David Casserly, Justin Kelly, Padhraic Doran, Patrick McHugh, Fergus Kelly, Darragh O’Malley Next step down (L-R): Niall O’Brien, Mark O’Boyle, Mark Finlay, David Mescal 1st Step (L-R): David Greene, Kieran Kelliher, Tom Devine, Padhraig O’Loughlin, Jim McDonnell, Shane Garvey Ground (L-R): William Stokes, Martin Hughes, Ronan Burns

Kieran Kelliher, William Stokes, Martin Hughes

Padhraic Doran, Gary Morrissey

Tomás Sheehy, David Mescal

Padhraig O’Loughlin, David Casserly, Niall O’Brien

David Greene, Martin Hughes, David Casserly, Ronan Burns, Padhraig O’Loughlin

Roscrea Review 25 ROSCREA Review CLASS OF 1962- ’67 REUNION Corrigan, Philip Hunt, Brian Ryan and Paddy Brown: sadly there is one more to add to the list of departed TH 9 SEPTEMBER 2017 – Donal Hogan who had hoped to make the Reunion, but was hospitalised at the time and died a few weeks Short but very sweet – it was great to be back for our later. 50 year reunion, everyone wondering where the time had gone, many of us happily retired, though some are Onwards to the County Arms where we had a thoroughly still happily working. marvellous night. If having Sean Loughnane on our organizing committee was to mean anything, there All seemed fresh and cheerful and there was a noisy would be pressure on his nephew Conor (CCR 1990- buzz around the room in the County Arms where 36 of ’95) to deliver the goods – and he did so in spades! us had a superb meal, of which more anon. All were fulsome in their praise of every aspect of the night’s proceedings! But the main contributions to a For some it started with a tilt at the Abbot’s Cup successful night come from the participants and just golf, though no one from our year threatened the like on previous occasions, this crew made sure they leaderboard. After the golf we dashed to the Billiard enjoyed themselves. Room (or the Centenary Room as they now call it) for a reception and a presentation by Ronnie Culliton and Nobody pre-planned the tables, but judging by the Pat Sullivan, dealing with the progress made since the sounds coming from one table in particular, it was just traumatic days of February and March last. like being back in school after a three month holiday.

This was made jointly to the three years groups Three guys came who had not been at previous (ourselves plus the classes of 1992 and 1997) holding reunions and enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Three reunions that weekend. If the group photo looks a bit failed to make it due to illnesses or accidents just before chaotic, put that down to the general chaos in the room the occasion – now thankfully recovered, and one who at the time with dozens of guys from three different hadn’t committed beforehand turned up on the day, year groups meeting up with old friends and former and enjoyed himself no end. Dan Ryan who captained teachers, in some cases for the first time since leaving Junior and Senior Rugby teams and played rugby into CCR. his 40s came all the way from Perth, Australia and gave a rousing impromptu speech, as did our House It was indeed a pleasure to meet four of our former Captain Joe Hayes. teachers – Sean Burke and Pat Kilbane as well as Vincent Leahy and John Shanahan the latter two The coup de grace, however came from our special having come all the way from Galway and Co. Limerick guest, Union President Pádraic Ó Máille who was for the occasion. attending his very last event as President. After toasting us in his own unique way he announced the There followed a Mass in the College chapel, beautifully name of the incoming President to take office at the celebrated by Dom Laurence and his wise, reflective, AGM the following day – our very own Liam Spooner! kindly words touched very profoundly on the fragility Liam then said a few words to the obvious delight of of life and reminded us of the benefits of having spent all present. this important time in our young lives in the shadow of one of Europe’s great monastic traditions. As in the case of other reunion groups at our stage of life, there were several suggestions that we reconvene When we last gathered 10 years ago, just 4 of our after five years – here’s to 2022! year group had passed away – Oliver Murphy, Jim Gaffney, Owen Farrell and Joe Mellotte. Since then, the number had more than doubled with the deaths of John McNamara, John ‘Chuck’ Cahill, Fintan

Roscrea Review 26 ROSCREA Review CCR Class of 1962-’67 Reunion photograph 9th September 2017, with four of their teachers, Dom Laurence and Union President Pádraic Ó Máille. Front (Kneeling): John Lucey, John Kane, Oliver Kiernan. Seated: David Wrafter, Paul Fogarty, Sean Feehan, Pat Hanratty, Union President Pádraic Ó Máille, Dom Laurence Walsh, Sean Loughnane Middle Row: Vincent Leahy, Pat Phelan, Sean Costelloe, Hugh Garahy, John O’Donoghue, Mundy Prendiville, Seamus Hoare, Austin Vaughan, Brian Duncan, Liam Kelly, Pat Ahearn, Willow Phelan, Pat O’Dwyer, Tim Corcoran, Liam Spooner, Sean Burke, Joe Hayes, Frank O’Meara, John Shanahan. Back row: Pat Kilbane, Vincent Egan (partially hidden), John Cunningham, Michael Shouldice, Pat Naughton, Ted Joyce, Tom Stokes (partially hidden behind Liam Spooner), Michael Ward. Standing at rear: Michael Hanly, Fergal O’Gara, Martin Phelan, John Reynolds. Dan Ryan also joined us later.

More photos from the Class of ‘62-’67 can be viewed on the Union website www.ccrunion.org

The morning after: Newly installed Union President Liam Spooner after the chain was handed over by outgoing President Pádraic Ó Máille.

Roscrea Review 27 ROSCREA Review Class of ‘56 Reunion - 10th September 2016

Roscrea Review 28 ROSCREA Review The Union Website - A MESSAGE FROM OUR TREASURER

Cistercian College

Roscrea Union Liam Spooner Union President Cistercian College Cistercian College Roscrea, Co.Tipperary Roscrea, Co. Tipperary T: +353 (0505 ) 31203 F: +353 (0 505) 22066 E: [email protected]

CCR Union website Pat Keane, Union Treasurer – www. ccrunion.org Dear Member, Early this year, I made changes to the website  Front page split into quarters showing: to bring it up to date. . Introduction with picture of the -current president . 2018 calendar of events . Latest news . Latest events  Contact page now shows the contact details of the Central Committee and branch chairmen.  Gallery has been reorganised to show the latest photos first.  The Roscrea Review has been allocated a main heading.  Links – Linkedin, College and Abbey website, Facebook Twitter- College account. – College, Abbey and Dublin branch, Correspondents required to keep our website up to date by providing:  Photos and reports from each branch f  Branch AGM dates and proposed eventsunction to be.  added to the calendar Branch AGM reports for inclusion on the website. .  Obituaries details for inclusion on the website.  Reunion functions & photos.

Can you help? Further improvements are needed but technical help will be required from members with a background in websites/computers. scattered over the website. We also need help to move photos to the gallery which are

Donate Page The Union Central Committee is dependent on your donations to finance its activities e.g. The Roscrea Review, Union Gold medal, administrative costs, website costs etc. contributors in order to continue supporting the past pupils and col We need more lege. It is my hope , that in time, our website will become a useful resource for past pupils in conjunction with the branch Facebook pages and the Linkedin page. need to work together to ensure this. Hopefully, it can actThe as centrala method committee of communication and the branches with the willpast pupils both in Ireland and abroad and encourage them to get involved with the Union.

I would be delighted to get suggestions and help with the website at tr [email protected] . Beir Bua,

Pat Keane Pat Keane , Treasurer, Cistercian College PPU

Roscrea Review 29 ROSCREA Review OBITUARIES In these pages are details of pastmen who have gone to their reward mostly in the past year or so. Several of them led extremely illustrious lives and we are grateful to those who sent details of their lives for use in these pages. They are an inspiration to those of us who follow in their footsteps.

John Coffey Anita and to his brother Joe (CCR to St Patrick’s Parish, Kakwagom, (CCR 1956-’61) died on 14th 1959-’64) . later ministering in St Charles March 2018 at the Galway Cathal Bredin. Parish, Obudu. After the Civil Clinic following a long battle War he was appointed to Holy with ill health. On leaving CCR Michael Drury Family Parish, Ikom where he he worked with Ulster Bank in (CCR 1946-’50) remained until 1983. During his Killeshandra and Eyre Square, died on 18th April 2018 in time in Ikom he began the work of Galway before taking over the pub Brussels. A native of Rathgar, establishing a new parish at Four and supermarket elements of the Dublin, he passed his Leaving Corners, St Peter the Apostle. family business in Lecarrow, Co. Cert with flying honours in 1950 Jim became Administrator of St Roscommon. His older brother but at 16 was too young for UCD, Benedict’s Cathedral, Ogoja, in Paddy who died in 2016 had so with a strong reference from February 1983. He spent the next assumed responsibility for wool his PP he was given permission sixteen years in the biggest parish buying and agricultural supply by Archbishop McQuaid to attend of the Diocese. He lived in the elements of the business in the evening lectures in TCD for Presbytery in Ogoja and oversaw years following his leaving CCR two years. On graduating from the extension of the Cathedral in 1959. Coffey’s pub which is College he joined the Dept. of and the establishment of a second very much part and parcel of the Foreign Affairs, and after Ireland parish in Ogoja Town, St Thomas local community in Lecarrow is joined the EEC, the European Parish. The Society decided to almost 100 years trading having Commission. He served both in a withdraw from Ogoja in 1999 since been first established in 1918 by long and distinguished career in it believed that its mission there John’s grandfather Patrick – it many different countries. His last had been successfully completed has been modernised over the post was as Head of the European and that the needs of the Church years but still has the same old- Commission Delegation in were greater elsewhere. style feel. John is survived by his Bangladesh from 1994 to 1999. wife Auriol, three daughters and When he retired he continued Jim was redeployed to the a son, two sisters and a brother, living in Brussels with his wife Archdiocese of Lagos where he Damien (CCR 1961-’66). Marlene. He was a frequent went to work in St Joseph’s Parish, contributor to Irish Times letters Kirikiri. It would be his home for Vincent Dooley (CCR 1955- page, his last missive appearing the next twelve years. During that ’60) died on 3rd September 2017. only a few weeks before his death. time he established many projects He was living in Dublin and had in the parish, built a big Health been ill for some time. A native Clinic in association with the of Roscrea he pursued a career Fr. James English Religious Sisters of Charity and in banking and achieved a senior (CCR 1953-’58) James (Jim) opened a new parish, St Monica’s, level in the Bank of Ireland. English was a native of Hollyhill, in Mazamaza. After forty six years Vincent was a popular figure in Newport, Co Tipperary. After of faithful missionary service Jim the class. He was an articulate, sitting the Leaving Certificate returned to Ireland in July 2011 philosophical student with a in June 1958 he joined the St. and came to live at Kiltegan. penchant for writing poetry. He Patrick’s Missionary Society in was also a nifty corner forward Kiltegan the following September Jim was an outstanding in the best Tipperary hurling and was ordained in 1965. missionary priest who served the tradition. His classmates wish After ordination Jim was people to whom he was sent with sincere sympathies to his wife appointed to the Diocese of Ogoja, every fibre of his being. To use an Mary and children Brian and Nigeria. His first assignment was image from the sporting world:

Roscrea Review 30 ROSCREA Review “Jim left everything on the field Jim Egan the traffic reports. of play!” His whole life revolved (CCR 1952-’57) died suddenly around the people to whom he at his home in Co. Sligo on Bernard Finnegan ministered. He listened to them 6th January 2018. He studied (CCR 1951-’57) formerly of with great patience, compassion Accountancy and practiced as a Mountrath, Co. Laois and later and wisdom. He spent hours in Chartered Accountant, but also Piercetown, Co. Wexford, died the parish office every week and had business interests including on 12th November 2016. Bernard all who came were welcomed bookshops. A long time resident was a brother of the late Fr. warmly and were assured of a of London, he was very active over Anthony Finnegan OCSO. listening ear, an encouraging word the years in the London Branch and when appropriate received of the Union. He was particularly Colin Flannery some material help. Jim invested fondly remembered by London (CCR 1978-’83) formerly of heavily in education and in health Union stalwarts Donald Gallivan Ladywell, Athlone died suddenly projects. and John Yurky, the latter recalling on 20th January 2018. He was with great fondness zooming living in Galway at the time of his There is a school in Ogoja which around London in Jim’s open top death. bears his name: The Fr Jim car! His contemporary Brendan Inglis International Nursery and O’Dea also remembers him with Monsignor Jack Foley Primary School. The parishes fondness as a high achiever, an (CCR 1952-’53) who died on where he ministered were hives excellent athlete and a formidable Ash Wednesday, 1st March 2017 of activity and places of love, hurler at a time when CCR was was one of three brothers from joy and sharing. Jim introduced one of the top names in Leinster Ballinahinch, Newport, Co. Marriage Encounter to the people Hurling. He recalls that Jim was Tipperary who attended CCR. of Ogoja and even became known always a proud pastman and a Though ordained in All Hallows, as The Marriage Priest! He put helper and supporter to others Dublin in 1959, he spent his life great emphasis on strengthening in less successful circumstances as a priest in California. A lovely family life and organised particularly when in London. tribute to him was posted on the many events with the aim of Brendan also recalls how their website of the Crescenta Valley encouraging families to be centres year group were in CCR at the very Weekly, from which we quote the of love, acceptance, healing and beginning of An thAth Éanna’s following extract: compassion. long tenure as Dean of Discipline and that he taught them Irish – “Fr. Jack touched the lives of On his return to Ireland Jim settled indeed Jim used to recall how he many as a servant of the Lord and into life at Kiltegan very easily. He and An thAth Éanna shared two his family and parish community often led the Community Mass at great loves – Iománaíocht agus an thank you for your prayers over 12.15 and members appreciated teanga! the last year,” stated the church’s his gentle and encouraging style. website. He knew he had borne the heat John Yurky recalls Jim’s great of the day and was now enjoying singing voice and how he used to Everyone, Catholic and non a more relaxed and leisurely entertain the London Branch at Catholic, loved Father Jack, the lifestyle. His health deteriorated many a function. Jim moved form kindest, most dedicated priest. over the last two years. He died London to Sligo for health reasons Just this Christmas season, I went peacefully in the Care Unit on the some years ago, but attended the to confession with him. He gave afternoon of 12th April 2018. London Dinner as recently as of himself, no matter how sick or Jim was predeceased by his 2016 and was one of 17 at the 60 old he had become,” said one local brothers Pat and Michael. He is Year Reunion of the Class of ’57 parishioner. “Just recently, he survived by his sister Maureen last Autumn. surprised Father Marc by showing (Ryan), by his sister-in-law Lily, up on the altar to concelebrate his brother-in-law Denis Ryan Cyril Ferris Mass, even though I suspect he and by his nephews and nieces (CCR 1957-’62) died on 2nd was most probably suffering. and their families. January 2018. He was retired He was always smiling and jolly. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam Media and PR Manager of Iarnród Somehow when he held your uasal. Éireann and had previously been hand, you knew everything would Head of Communications at be all right.” Fr. John Garry (CCR 1958-’62) CIÉ. Long before AA Roadwatch became a feature of early morning Fr. Jack’s brother, Fr. Denis Foley radio Cyril could be heard reading is a retired priest of the Cashel

Roscrea Review 31 ROSCREA Review Archdiocese, currently living caused him to retire early from his As well as being a first class in Dublin. He regularly attends work as an engineer with the ESB accountant, he was an excellent Union functions and CCR matches in Tullamore. Despite the ongoing raconteur and story teller. A in Donnybrook. difficulties this caused, Donal friend described him as always remained cheerful and resilient. being great fun with a most Dr. Joseph Gallagher He was one of the most positive, infectious and happy laugh. The (CCR 1940-’42) of Milltown, outgoing guys in the Class of ’62- huge turn out at his funeral was Dublin and originally from ’67 and he attended our reunions testament to his popularity and Westport, died on 19th March 2018 in 1992 and 2008, and was a the esteem in which he was held. two days after his 93rd birthday, regular at the Midlands Branch Unfortunately, he had some having led an extraordinarily full golf outings in Tullamore GC and health issues in recent years and life, although a gentleman of real later Esker Hills GC, even when finally lost the battle with cancer humility. not well enough to play. Indeed he last month. He is survived by his had hoped to attend our 50 year wife Marian, daughters Aoife, He studied medicine at UCD, reunion last September but was Muireann, Neasa and Emer and playing Rugby and captaining St. hospitalised shortly before it. son Gavan (CCR 2001-’07). He Vincent’s in the Hospitals’ Cup. was a first cousin and classmate He worked at different hospitals It was with very deep regret that of Union Honorary Life Vice in England before returning to we learned of his death. We extend President Aidan McNulty. Ireland in 1956. He went on to have our sympathies to his wife Miriam a stellar career in orthopaedics – and son Daniel. John Morgan he set up the A & E Department (CCR 1965-’70) died after a in St. Vincent’s, he was one of John B. Lynch lengthy battle with cancer on 10th the first Irish physicians to ever (CCR 1950-’55) died peacefully, January 2018. A native of Athlone, attempt spinal surgery and he was at Cork University Hospital he was an engineer with Galway reputed to have carried out the on 1st March 2018. A native of Co. Council. first successful hip replacement Charleville he was a retired dentist in Cappagh National Orthopaedic and practised in Mallow. His son, Liam Mulcahy Hospital. Garvan is also a CCR pastman. (CCR 1963-’66) who died three days after Easter 2017 was a He continued his involvement in Michael McNulty native of Skerries who joined the Rugby and in the early 1970s he (CCR 1960-’65) died on 10th class of 1961-’66 in their Inter was appointed medical advisor April 2018. A native of Sligo, Cert year. He quickly established to the IRFU, and in 1989 was Michael excelled at sport and was a reputation as a speedy winger appointed to the International scrum half and captain of both and played Junior and Senior Rugby Board. the Junior and Senior Rugby Rugby for CCR. He met his wife Betty (who teams. Indeed he was also a very predeceased him) while working good soccer player, and a life long The following is an extract from a in Leicester: they had three supporter of Sligo Rovers, having piece Alan Loomes circulated to sons and a daughter. A deeply grown up within a stone’s throw classmates soon after his death. committed family man, he also of the Showgrounds. He regularly excelled as a sailor, took up attended CCR’s Rugby matches Michael McNamara and I met painting in retirement, and was a thinking nothing of the round Liam on the Tuesday of Holy Week keen fisherman and golfer: indeed trip from Sligo, and though not for one of our regular alcohol free he was playing golf in Milltown a golfer, he was generous in his weekly lunches. He was in great GC up to a few weeks before his sponsorship of the annual Dublin form having just spent a month death. Branch outing. He was second in Lanzarote. He rang me from House Captain in his Leaving Cert St. Vincent’s Hospital on Easter Joe’s younger brother Roger who year. Sunday morning to tell me he died a few years ago was House had had an accident and to let me Captain in 1944-’45. On leaving CCR he studied know his whereabouts. He told accountancy and practiced for me that on Good Friday as he was Donal Hogan some years in Rathgar, Dublin leaving the house of a neighbour/ (CCR 1962-’67) died on 20th and later in Co. Kildare before friend in a totally sober state, he October 2017 after a lengthy battle returning to his beloved Sligo tripped when exiting the front with illness. Several years ago, some years ago. door. In the resulting fall, he Donal had a brain tumour which broke his pelvis and his wrist in

Roscrea Review 32 ROSCREA Review two places and badly damaged full sentence. And of course as Frank O’Malley his pancreas but insisted that he Bus Éireann with a good CCR (CCR 1941-’46) died after a was all right and that in time he man at the helm didn’t as feared short illness on 22nd June 2017. would be healed and that I should go out of business we went free Born in Rosmuc, Co. Galway in not worry about him. Sadly, with our bus passes. Liam would October 1928 he returned to the however he was not to know that appreciate that. family business after completing his heart was in a bad state and his Leaving Certificate. In 1953 it began to fail on the following May Liam continue to pray for us he married Maud Kyne, from Tuesday. He was aware of how all as he always did and may he Clonbur, and they had 8 children. serious things were for him use his inside knowledge to have While in Roscrea he was involved following an immediate heart the pearly gates open for us when in athletics, specialising in sprints operation but with his belief in we arrive to join him. and the long jump. He also God he was calmly resigned to I checked to make sure he was represented Roscrea in rugby, his fate. In fact, on the Tuesday buried wearing his CCR tie... playing on the wing. According night he said “Shush” to his Priest which he was. to his son, Tomas, Frank always brother Tom “Our Lady is coming spoke fondly of the five years he for me. Do not worry about Conor Brady, also a classmate, spent in the college and the many me. I am happy”. May I have described him as a gentle soul friends he made there. such composure when the Grim who battled ill health and other Reaper comes for me. life challenges with good humour Vincent Sherry and courage - devout in his faith (CCR 1929 -’35) was one of six He died peacefully the following and unwaveringly loyal to CCR. brothers who attended CCR and evening, 19thApril with his was probably the oldest living brother and his girlfriend John Needham pastman of CCR when he died in by his side. He was buried in (CCR 1965-’68) died on 14th July 2017, just a few months after Skerries Holmpatrick Cemetery October 2017. A native of Lorrha, his 100th birthday. He qualified as on Monday 24th after Mass in he had been in ill health for a long a surgeon and worked in England his local church, St Patrick’s, time, following a stroke over 15 for many years. According to his Ringsend where he served as years ago. He was pre deceased by baby brother Barney (now 97), part time sacristan twice a week. his brother Richard (CCR 1959- it was love at first sight when a There was a great turnout of ’62). friend introduced him to his wife neighbours and friends and from Kathleen, also a surgeon. his Bridge Club and Clarendon St. Joseph (JV) O’Loughlin Prayer Group and from Skerries (CCR 1944-’48) died on 31st He spent the war years in London Rugby Club where he was well December 2017. A native of Gorey, working in a hospital that was known as a former member and he was a contemporary of Manus on the flight path of the German always a loyal supporter. Moran and the late Dom Colmcille bombers during the Blitz. As you will understand Michael O’Toole – they were often referred Surprisingly, perhaps, he was the and I are in a state of shock and to as the three musketeers. On only one of his team not called up total disbelief that we will no leaving CCR, Joe did a B.Sc at during WW2. longer be able to listen to his UCD and worked for some years “slow” delivery and hear his loud with Albright and Wilson in Dún Kathleen predeceased him and infectious laughter following a Laoghaire. He enrolled in Ireland’s they are now both buried in the telling of his latest, always clean, first MBA Course in 1962 and Monastery Cemetery. joke. soon after obtaining that degree After the Month’s Mind Mass on he was appointed MD of Loctite Colm Walsh Friday 19th May in Ringsend, (Ireland), a post he occupied for a (CCR 1947 – ’52) died on 29th Michael and I travelled to decade before setting up his own december 2017. He was the Skerries to pay our respects to company Clonattin Chemicals second of the four Walsh brothers Liam after which we retired with his wife Connie in 1977, and (Michael, Colm, Sean (RIP) to a much recommended local at one stage he was Chairman of and Raymond) from Ballivor, Restaurant where we raised a the Federation of Irish Chemical Co Meath to attend CCR. He glass or two to our friend of 54 Industries. inherited the family business and years … bear in mind that he farm which prospered under his did a short committal in CCR… His sons, Diarmuid, Shane, Fiac guidance. He is survived by his arriving in 1963… unlike most and Cormac all attended CCR in wife Thérèse, five children and of us poor sods who served the the 1970s. fourteen grandchildren.

Roscrea Review 33 ROSCREA Review Abbot’s Cup 2017

The 2017 Abbot’s Cup held at Roscrea GC on 9th Colm wouldn’t be playing off 28 for long! September 2017 and despite a large and competitive field, Eamon Maher (CCR 1972-’78) playing off 16 The event was boosted by the attendance of scored a brilliant 41 points to retain the Cup he won members of three Class groups holding reunions last year. Runner up on 37 points playing off 5 on that weekend, though the absence of anyone from a count back was Gary Morrison, while Eamon’s the classes of 1967, 1992 or 1997 on the leaderboard playing partner David Powderly also on 37 playing is noteworthy. off 17 was third. This year’s event takes place on Saturday 8th Regular participant Frank Thompson (10) won September – see details on Union Calendar on fourth prize with a score of 36 points, while the ladies’ opposite page. prize went to Mai Quaid (18) with an excellent 39 points and Colm Cunningham (28) won the Student Prize with a score of 36 points. It was predicted that

2016 and 2017 winner Eamon Maher (right) with his playing partners, Joe Geraghty (guest) and David Powderly (CCR 1975-’80) at the start of their round.

Roscrea Review 34 ROSCREA Review UNION CALENDAR AND CLASS REUNIONS 2018/2019 Fri. 22nd June Dublin Branch Golf Outing – Elm Park GC - Contact Sean O’Sullivan [email protected]

Fri. 6th July Hurling Support Group Golf Classic: at Roscrea GC. - Contact Ann McIntyre 087 268 8052 [email protected]

Sat. 4th August Roscrea Day at the Races at Galway Racecourse - Contact Fiona Glynn, Lydon House Catering, 091 564015

Sat 8th September Abbot’s Cup Golf: Roscrea GC - Contact Katherine Donovan [email protected] 0505 31203

Sun. 9th September Union AGM at 12.00 noon in College Centenary Room - Liam Spooner will hand over the chain of office to Fergal Keane

Fri. 19th October Dublin Branch Business Lunch Fitzwilliam LTC Guest Speaker tbc Contact Liam Nicholl [email protected]

Fri. 16th November North American Dinner - Contact Contact Des O’Brien: [email protected]

Fri. 8th March 2019 Dublin Dinner tbc - Contact

London Branch Dinner tba 2019 - Contact Fergal Keane [email protected].

REUNIONS 2018

Date Details Class of 1988 Reunion - 30 Year Reunion Saturday, 29th Venue: Racket Hall Hotel, Roscrea September Contact: Pierce O’Leary 086 255 9649 [email protected] Class of 1968 – 50 Year Reunion Friday/Saturday, 5th/6th Venue: Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise (Sat.) and CCR October Sun.) Contact: Jim Keating 086 817 7597 [email protected] Class of 1993 Reunion – 25 Year Reunion Venue: County Arms Hotel, Birr Saturday, 20th October Contact: Darragh Hanratty 086 807 9551 [email protected]

Roscrea Review 35 ROSCREA Review Roscrea Dublin Business Lunch22 Review

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