The SFAI is deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Padraig Hartnett.
Padraig was a loyal servant of the game for decades at national, league and club levels, integrating his media work and skills to accelerate the game forward.
He served on many national FAI and SFAI bodies for boy and girls football, indeed a champion of girls football when it was less fashionable, organising and promoting football opportunities for all levels. This week he was sourcing results/fixtures in his role as one of the National Cup coordinators, such was his dedication but also the shock is even more immense.
Only last June he was a vital part of the Gaynor Cup team, organising quietly behind the scenes plus continuously rolling out content across the land to dozens of local media outlets for all leagues.
He was so indispensable he was kept on for the Kennedy Cup and later Inter League Finals organising teams. A snapshot of a really outstanding football operator.
Padraigs work with Kerry football is probably immeasurable – he had an encyclopaedic knowledge of the game in the county. His work will have influenced thousands of players, coaches, administrators, referees and everyone associated.
Despite operating in Kerry with fairness and professionalism, it was rare to have a football conversation where he didn’t mention Killarney Celtic, around the table in abbotstown, even when the topic was obliquely related at best. His care and the sometimes unconscious pull he had for the club was apparent.
The other club that got a mention was Nottingham Forest, very enthused by their return to the Premier League for the current season.
It is very sad for all of us that knew him through football. He knew his business, the game, was tough but always affable, we have lost a friend.
Condolences to all his ‘football family’ in Kerry and Killarney Celtic. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Padraigs wife Maura, his brother Brendan and all his family and friends.
Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a n-anam
