Pádraig ‘Dandy’ Kelly, one of Galway’s long-serving players of the 1980s, who sadly passed away in November 2001.
Kelly’s record in Connacht SFC finals:
1982: Galway 3-17 Mayo 0-10
1983: Galway 1-13 Mayo 1-10
1984: Galway 2-13 Mayo 2-09
1986: Galway 1-08 Roscommon 1-05
1987: Galway 0-08 Mayo 0-07
During his career, while Galway were dominating in Connacht, they were unlucky outside the province, losing 4 All-Ireland semi-finals & 1 All-Ireland SFC Final during his inter-county career.
1982 lost semi-final to Offaly, 1-12 to 1-11
1983 lost All-Ireland final to Dublin, 1-10 to 1-08
1984 lost semi-final to Kerry, 2-17 to 0-11
1986 lost semi-final to Tyrone, 1-12 to 1-09
1987 lost semi-final to Cork, after a replay.
Drew 1-11 apiece, before Cork prevailed 0-18 to 1-04 in the replay.
The sudden and untimely death of Pádraig Kelly on 17th November 2001 was one of the saddest days in Maigh Cuilinn GAA club’s long history. Pádraig was a well-respected teacher, an outstanding footballer and an all-round sportsman. His dedication to the club as a player and as secretary was exemplary. He played for Galway in all grades and gave sterling service to the county.
Pádraig’s sons Sean & Paul have followed in his footsteps, by wearing the Maroon & White of Galway. They have also enjoyed considerable success on the basketball court. We also remember his son Dara, who sadly passed away on the 19th February 2003.
(Source: Galway Footballers Homepage)
