The late Tadhg Ó Gealbháin honoured with new trophy

A warm and reflective gathering took place at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh last week as Cork GAA formally accepted a new trophy in honour of the late Tadhg Ó Gealbháin of Béal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh. 

The presentation marked a significant moment for both his club and the Muskerry division, recognising a man whose influence and service stretched across decades and across every layer of the association.

Tadhg — known to many simply as Teddy — passed away in August 2025, leaving behind a legacy built on unwavering commitment to his community and to the GAA. 

His involvement was deep and varied: he served as chairman and later president of the Muskerry Board, and held numerous officerships within his own club. Those roles only hint at the breadth of his contribution, which was rooted in a lifelong belief in volunteerism and in the cultural importance of Gaelic games.

Cork GAA chairman Pat Horgan addressed the attendance and paid a heartfelt tribute. He welcomed Tadhg’s daughter, Orla Uí Gealbháin-Gríofa and granddaughter, Méabh Ní Gríofa, who presented the new cup in his memory. 

Horgan said the trophy would stand as a lasting reminder of Tadhg’s distinguished reputation and his steadfast dedication to both Béal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh and the wider GAA community in Cork. He noted that few individuals embodied the spirit of service as completely as Tadhg had done throughout his life.

Liam Mac an Mhaoir of Raidió na Gaeltachta also spoke at the event, and he offered a personal insight into the man he had known for many years. He referred to the extensive service his old friend had given to the GAA in various ways — as a player, as a referee, as a selector and as an officer. 

That influence was felt not only in Cois Laoi but at national level too, as Tadhg spent years as chairperson of Comórtas Peile na Gaeltachta. He said that Tadhg would never refuse any role as long as it was for the good of the association, and that he will be remembered as an honest man, a loyal friend, and someone whose company was always interesting.

Cork GAA CEO and secretary, Kevin O’Donovan and Cork GAA Communications Officer, Gerard O’Sullivan, were among those in attendance, reflecting the county’s appreciation for Tadhg’s contribution. 

Béal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh were represented by club chairman Antóin Ó Creimín and secretary Caoimhín Ó Buachalla, while Shauna Nic Charthaigh was also present for the occasion. The gathering was modest in size but rich in sentiment, with each speaker emphasising the depth of Tadhg’s influence and the respect he commanded across the county.

The newly named cup will be awarded annually to the winners of the Confined Junior B Football Championship from 2026 onwards. Its first destination was decided when Clann na nGael and Tracton met at Páirc Uí Rinn last Friday, with Clann na nGael winning. 

In honouring Tadhg Ó Gealbháin, Cork GAA has ensured that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.