John F. Fearon

John Fearon opens the interview with references to his family background and his introduction to the GAA through school and club. Issues of politics and identity lie at the core of the interview. Fearon refers to the impact of the GAA on his sense of Irishness or ‘anti-Britishness’, as well as the impact of the Troubles, in particular the activities of the British army in places like Crossmaglen. Fearon discusses his pride in being from Crossmaglen, the playing record of the club from the 1960s onwards and the influence of individuals like Joe Kernan and Jim McConville. Comments are made on the development of facilities and on the Irish language within the club. In addition, Fearon reflects on highlights in the club and county’s recent history, his admiration for the Kerry team of the 1970s and 80s and the reactions to the success of Armagh and Tyrone in the early 2000s.