By Peter McGrath jnr
On Sunday afternoon, a stillness descended on the village of Rostrevor as it laid to rest one of its favourite sons – Raymond McNally. Many of the senior players on Rostrevor teams of this millennium turned out and provided him with a fitting guard of honour. Raymond was often a confidant for players and the man who had walked alongside them so often. Now it was their turn to walk with him.
Throughout the county, many people knew Raymond. Many, many more would have known him to see. For over two decades, he was a near-constant figure in the Rostrevor senior men’s backroom team. Quietly, unassumingly, Raymond managed the kit. Footballs, cones, bibs, water bottles—every Friday without fail. Between times, twice weekly, he would be just as thorough at every training session at Pettit Park.
Raymond could often be found at the ground at other times too, spending Saturday mornings at the pitch, keeping it pristine, keeping things in order.
He was, first and foremost, a great family man. His deep love of, and devotion to, his family was the only thing which superseded his love of, and commitment to, the GAA.
When Rostrevor were constantly competing at the top end of Down club football in the 1970s, the St Bronagh’s club became known as the ‘Super Reds’. The on-field performances of the present day might not quite live up to that mantle, but Raymond McNally most certainly lived up to the title. He was a ‘Super Red’ in every way.
Never asking for anything, never wanting a thing for his service. When Raymond gave his word, he honoured it. No caveats, no back doors. One Rostrevor championship winner said on Sunday: “He never said too much, probably because he didn’t have to.”
A gentleman and a Gael, Raymond loved trips to grounds around the country, meeting the great and the good of the association alongside his close friend, Val Murphy. His easy way and quick wit made him great company.
The St Bronagh’s club is poorer for his passing. They have lost a true volunteer, a man who embodied all that is good in the GAA. His memory will live long in the minds of the people of the village and the club he held so dear.
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