News

17 June 2016 / Club News

RIP Patrick Walsh

Old Illtydian RFC is saddened to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Club Stalwart Patrick Walsh. Paddy was a much loved friend and colleague, a whole-hearted, talented and committed player and, not least, a loyal and tireless Illtydian. Paddy followed his brothers Francis and Michael in playing for the Old Boys. His first involvement with the Club was with the Under 16s which he captained. At this tender age as playing numbers depleted, his determination not to let the side fold involved him in a recruitment drive of former Bishop Hannon mates including among others, Steve Harrington and the Kane brothers. Having effectively saved this side, he progressed to Youth Rugby, again as captain and became the only Illtydian to captain three age levels when he skippered the Firsts to emulate his brother, Francis. Paddy had a long career also playing for Illts’ Veterans and the Fire Service. Paddy had an ongoing “love/hate” relationship with referees, and despite always having the last word and sailing very close to the wind on occasions, his natural charm and wit ensured that there were rarely repercussions. 

When his playing career finished, Paddy moved into the unenviable role of first team manager, performing miracles to keep some of the flakiest individuals turning up for training and matches. Paddy handed over the reins to John Manders to spend more time with his wonderful family, but he remained an Illtydian through and through, being active on the committee and serving as Vice-Chairman and travelling all over Wales to support the boys whenever he wasn’t working. When the Illts secured promotion at the end of the season Paddy was absolutely delighted and his was the first text i received when i got back to the changing rooms after the Cambrian game. 

Paddy was fluent in sarcasm and his intelligence and wit made him a difficult man to argue with. He could cut people down with the funniest one liners, but they were always delivered with a smile. Along with his tremendous sense of humour, Paddy was one of the kindest and most genuine men you could ever wish to meet. Its a rare quality to be able to enhance the mood of people just through a conversation, but anytime you spoke to Paddy you felt better when you left than you had before you spoke to him. The lives of everyone who knew him will be poorer for his absence.

The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Old Illtydian RFC are with the Walsh family, especially Nicola, Will and Orla. The funeral will be held next Friday 24th June at 11AM at St Francis Church.

Paddy loved the Illts and embodied so many of the values which make the Illtydians a great club. The Clubman of the Year award, which rewards outstanding service to Old Illtydian RFC will be renamed the Patrick Walsh Award in honour of this outstanding man taken too soon. RIP Paddy

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