Billy Doolan

Billy Doolan recalls his earliest memories of the GAA, and discusses the history of Gaelic football in the Kilcummin area. He recalls Kilcummin teams that he played on, and mentions some of the club's successes. He also mentions a club tour to the United States in the 1970s. Billy discusses his involvement with stewarding at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, describing his progression to Event Controller at the stadium. He describes club colleague Sean Kelly's election to the presidency of the GAA, and provides details of the trip to his inauguration in Belfast. He provides anecdotes from tournaments he played in and matches he attended, including All-Ireland finals. He also describes facilities in the club down through the years, and how they have improved. He also describes his family's involvement in the GAA. Billy recalls his administrative roles with Kilcummin over the years, and how technology has affected those roles. He discusses the role of women in the club. Issues such as The Ban and the opening of Croke Park to other sports are also assessed. He also talks about professionalism and the ethos of volunteerism that is in the GAA. Billy also recalls his best memories of the GAA, his biggest disappointment with the Association, the sacrifices that he has made through his involvement with the club, and his heroes in the GAA. He concludes by discussing what his involvement in the GAA has meant to him.