18 August 2012
Tributes paid to Antrim legend Kevin Brady
Kevin Brady, after 15 years of unbroken service and more than 100 appearances for his county, has announced that he is to retire from inter county football. The Moneyglass man, who scored a point in his last appearance in the qualifier defeat away to Tipperary, has put his decision down to a combination of work and family commitments and more persistent injuries.
Antrim Chairman Jim Murray paid a fulsome tribute to Brady.
“The days of someone playing for 15 years for their county are probably behind us in most cases now, since the game takes a lot out of players. Kevin Brady is an exceptional Antrim man and he will be missed. However, I have nothing but fond memories of Kevin, let’s face it in Antrim we haven’t had too many big days over the years but when they did come along – and they did – Kevin was always there. From the long waited Championship win over Down in 2000, the draw against Derry the same year, winning the Tommy Murphy Cup in 2008 and of course the run to the Ulster Final in 2009. He was at the heart of all those achievements.
"Kevin also happens to be a gentleman of gaelic games and he was always proud to represent his county. We wish him well and on behalf of all supporters I say ‘go raibh maith agat’ to Kevin for the years given to the team.”
Past and former clubmates were quick to heap praise on Kevin.
Former county footballer and Rossa man Gavin Bell said “Kevin Brady is simply one of the very best players and gentlemen ever to wear a Saffron jersey.”
Ricky Johnston, a newcomer when compared to Brady said, “It was a pleasure to play with such a good role model for the past 2 years.” Former captain Paddy Cunningham called Brady “a role model for every young player growing up.” Renowned coach Adrian McGuikin said he was sorry to hear of Kevin’s retirement – “I had the pleasure of coaching him in Maghera and at UUJ. He is a great footballer and a gentleman.” James Loughrey said he was “glad to have played with such a great”
There is very clearly a groundswell of respect among Antrim gaels for Kevin Brady – and it is very well deserved. As Michael McCann put it – “some man!”
Thanks Kevin
