By Donal Cunningham
Glowing tributes from across the game of Hurling have been paid to Ballycastle’s Phelim Watson following his untimely death in hospital on Monday 20th December.
An Armoy native who came to live, work and hurl in the ‘Town’. Phelim was a member of the McQuillan Ballycastle team during a period of success during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.
It was then manager at the time, the late Dermot Donnelly’s inspired decision to utilise Phelim at ‘centre three-quarters’ which made him a key component in the all-conquering McQuillan team. He may not have been the most skillful hurler on the team, but he more than made up for it with his strength and tenacity, and was a vital member.
In a distinguished playing career as part of a star studded forward line which included at times the likes of Eddie, Brian and Dessie Donnelly, Peter ‘Porky’ Boyle, Charlie McVeigh, Peter and Mickey Dallatt and Phelim’s brother in law Olcan Laverty, it was Phelim’s power and strength that made the number 11 jersey his own.
Phelim lined out in six consecutive County finals (1979- 1984), and picked up four Volunteer Cup and four Ulster Club Championship medals. He also played for the Town in the 1980 All-Ireland Club final which they lost narrowly to Galway side Castlegar. He is the first member of that great team to pass away.
The thoughts of everybody at McQuillan GAC are with Phelim’s family, his wife Geraldine, sons Adrian, John and daughter Mary, grandchildren and wider family at this sad and difficult time.
Phelim was laid to rest on Wednesday 22nd December following Requiem Mass in St Patrick and St. Brigid’s Church, Ballycastle.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
