DOWN GAA will bid farewell to one of its “greatest servants” following the passing of two-time All-Ireland winner George Lavery.
Just months after the loss of the legendary Dan McCartan, the county is in mourning once more, with Lavery playing at right full-back on the historic Down sides that lifted the Sam Maguire Cup in 1960 and ‘61.
The Kilwarlin man made his debut for Down in 1953, alongside the likes of Kevin Mussen, PJ McElroy and Kieran Denvir. As well as his All-Ireland triumphs, he would also win four Ulster Championships, two National Leagues and a Railway Cup.
Indeed, in 1958 Down reached a first Ulster final since 1942 but, due to confusion in travelling arrangements for the final in Clones, Lavery was left behind and the Mournemen had to line out without him.
It was a different story the following year, however, as he played when Down famously overcame Galway at Wembley, momentum building towards the turn of the decade and the glories that lay ahead in ‘60 and ‘61.
“1960 was the year of the history-makers and George played no small part,” read a Down GAA statement.
“In the All-Ireland final, he was coolness personified and just two minutes into the game, George beat his opponent to an incoming ball, delivered a pass to Tony Hadden who kicked a point from 40 yards for the first score. George had set Down on their way.
“In 1961 George was once again to the fore, playing heroically before a head injury would cause him to be substituted in the All-Ireland final against Offaly.”
And while Dan McCartan was still playing by the next time the Mournemen were crowned All-Ireland champions, Lavery was a selector in Gerry Brown’s management team as Down went all the way in 1968.
“George was a key part of that team on the sidelines, a man who quietly shared his experiences with the young members of the squad and was highly regarded by the players he had played with too.
“He was a link between the experience and the youth, and the role of George Lavery in the success of 1968 was as important as his playing role had been in 1960 and 1961.”
And the legacy left by Lavery and those he soldiered alongside through those years will never be forgotten.
“George was a quiet man, a gentleman, an uncompromising corner back, and a man whose contribution to the success of Down teams in the 1960s should never be underestimated. He had immense pride in the red and black.
“George was one of that generation of icons who have helped to make us the proud county that we are. They have left us a great legacy for the present and future generations.”
