Mick Loftus

Dr. Mick Loftus was President of the GAA from 1985 to 1987. In this interview, he reflects on his illustrious GAA career. He recalls playing for his local club Crossmolina in Mayo, and then with his school before making the Mayo minor team and achieving success with them. He then went to UCG where he was a member of their Sigerson Cup team. Injuries affected his effectiveness as a player but he found other ways to contribute and was soon refereeing games, eventually officiating at All-Ireland finals. He became involved with the Connacht Council and in 1984 was elected President of the GAA, after which he maintained his involvement through working with various committees. Dr Mick talks about all aspects of his GAA experiences - conflict in North of Ireland, redeveloping stadia, the GAA's Centenary Year, trips abroad. A dedicated and principled man, he talks about the importance of the club to the GAA, his active stance against the promotion of alcohol within the Association and the health benefits of going on a daily jog at 80 years of age.