PJ Geraghty pictured receiving the Pat Trainor Award for Lifetime service to Cumann na mBunscol from, left to right, Pat Trainor's daughters Clodagh and Áine and Chairperson of Cumann na mBunscol, Joe Lyons, at the recent Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards which were held in Hodson Bay Hotel, Roscommon.
Louth native PJ Geraghty received the Pat Trainor Hall of Fame Award for Lifetime Service to Cumann na mBunscol at the recent Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards which were held in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Roscommon.
The award celebrates the contributions of dedicated teachers who have tirelessly promoted Gaelic Games. PJ Geraghty embodies the spirit of this award through his lifelong commitment to Gaelic Games and his invaluable service to Cumann na mBunscol at both county and national levels.
Originally from Craughwell, Co. Galway, PJ Geraghty has become a stalwart of Cumann na mBunscol Contae Lú. His journey with the organisation began in 1982 when he was elected as Treasurer of Cumann na mBunscol’s Coiste Náisiúnta, a role he fulfilled until 1989. During that time PJ became vice-chairman and, in 1992, rose to the position of chairman, where he served until 1995. As a key figure, PJ also represented Cumann na mBunscol as a delegate to the GAA Central Council from 1995 to 1998.
Cavan Cumann na mBunscol members accept their Social Media Award at the recent Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards which were held in Hodson Bay Hotel, Roscommon.
PJ’s contributions to Gaelic Games went far beyond his leadership roles. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was at the forefront of many important initiatives undertaken by Coiste Náisiúnta. As chairman, PJ successfully negotiated a significant sponsorship deal with Church and General (later Allianz) and secured vital equipment and sportswear agreements with O’Neills and Connolly Sports.
His work as the Mini Sevens Coordinator from 1989 to 1995 led to a major revamp of the series, helping to enhance its legacy. Furthermore, PJ’s collaboration with Roadstone MD Michael Grogan resulted in the creation of the first Roadstone Awards in 1998, recognising excellence within Gaelic Games.
Moneynick PS, Co Antrim were prizewinners for Promotion of Gaelic Games and Culture at the recent Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards which were held in Hodson Bay Hotel, Roscommon.
Despite his growing national responsibilities, PJ never lost sight of his roots in Louth. He served as treasurer of Cumann na mBunscol Contae Lú from 1982 to 1988, later becoming Chairman. His passion for Gaelic Games is also reflected in his work as editor of the 1997 publication 50 Golden Years, commemorating the history and contributions of Cumann na mBunscol in county Louth.
Even after stepping away from national duties, PJ continued to make lasting contributions, particularly in the development of the Louth GAA website, where his dedication saw him travelling across the county to collect photographs and information.
His extensive work as a Minor Board Secretary further highlights his devotion to preserving and promoting Gaelic Games in the region. Together with other likeminded people PJ put Go Games on a firm footing in Co Louth.
Dave Collins, Kate O'Callaghan, and Brother Dormer of Munster CNMB with Eimear Conroy, Cornmarket and Gary Farrell Uachtarán CNMB at the recent Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards which were held in Hodson Bay Hotel, Roscommon.
In addition to his role within Cumann na mBunscol, PJ has had an equally profound impact as a teacher at St Mary’s BNS (Congress Avenue, Drogheda). His tireless efforts as a GAA official and Cumann na mBunscol officer at both county and national levels have left an enduring legacy, inspiring countless students and colleagues alike.
PJ Geraghty has dedicated his life to the promotion and development of Gaelic Games, embodying the values that the Pat Trainor Hall of Fame Award represents. His leadership, passion, and contributions have had an immeasurable impact on the Gaelic Games community, making him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
Cornmarket Cumann na mBunscol Awards Roll of Honour 2025
Category 1: Allianz P.R. Award
- Sciath na Scol, Corcaigh
- Cumann na mBunscol Chill Dara
- Cumann na mBunscol an Chláir
Category 2: Social Media Award
- Cumann na mBunscol Tír Eoghain
- Cumann na mBunscol an Chabháin
- Cumann na mBunscol Fhear Manach
Category 3: Publications
- Cumann na mBunscol Luimnigh
- Lawrence O’Toole’s NS, Co Wicklow
- Cumann na mBunscol na Mumhan
Category 4: Promotion of Gaelic Games & Culture
- Mary’s PS, Co Derry
- Kennedy Park School, Co Wexford
- Moneynick PS, Co Antrim
Category 5: School of the Year (less than 200 pupils)
- Our Lady’s and St Mochua’s Primary School, Co Armagh
- Knock NS, Co Mayo.
- Kilkishen NS, Co Clare
Category 6: School of the Year (greater than 200 pupils)
- Rathcormac NS, Co. Sligo
- Holy Trinity SNS, Donaghmede, Co Dublin
- Mary’s PS, Portglenone, Co. Antrim