In memory of Paudie Palmer: New trophy unveiled at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh

The Cork County Board held a special ceremony on Tuesday evening at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh to unveil the Paudie Palmer Memorial Trophy, which will now be presented annually to the winners of the Division 2 Football League.

The event brought together family members, work colleagues and representatives from Valley Rovers, Paudie’s adopted club, to honour a man whose voice and presence were central to GAA life in Cork for more than three decades.

The trophy was formally presented to the Cork County Board by Paudie’s wife, Colette, and his daughter, Emily, with James Collins of West Cork Design — the craftsman behind the new piece — also in attendance.

Paudie was the much-loved Kerry man who made his home in Innishannon, where he became deeply rooted in the community. Though his accent and humour always carried the imprint of his native county, he was embraced in Cork and became one of the most trusted figures in local sport.

He passed away in January 2023, a loss that was felt deeply across Cork GAA and far beyond.

His long association with C103 made him a familiar friend to supporters across the county, with his commentaries and sideline reports known for their fairness, detail and warmth.

Alongside his broadcasting work, he was a columnist with The Echo, and taught for many years at St Brogan’s College in Bandon. There, he coached school teams, encouraged young footballers and helped shape the sporting lives of countless students.

The decision to name the Division 2 trophy in his honour was widely welcomed, and Tuesday evening’s unveiling allowed the county to formally acknowledge his contribution.

The first team to lift the new trophy will be decided on Friday week in Ovens at 7.30pm, when Uibh Laoire and Carrigaline meet in the Division 2 final. Both sides have produced strong league campaigns, and the added significance of being the inaugural winners of the Paudie Palmer Memorial Trophy will give the occasion an extra sense of meaning.

The ceremony closed with a reflection on Paudie’s legacy and the impact he had on Cork GAA. Though his voice is no longer heard on match days, his influence will always continue.