Presidents of the GAA: Séamus Ó Riain

Séamus Ó Riain (1916-2007), Tipperary, was the twenty-second president of the GAA (1967-1970).

Ó Riain played at club level with Moneygall, and Junior hurling and football with Tipperary[1]. He later trained as a National School teacher at De La Salle College, Waterford, winning two Waterford Senior Football Championships with the De La Salle team.[2].

While teaching at Borrisokane, his principal was Séamus Gardiner.

He served as Vice Chairman of the North Tipperary Board from 1955 to 1957, and as Chairman from 1957 to 1966. He was elected to the Munster Council in 1958, became Vice-Chairman in 1962, and Chairman 1965.

During his presidency, the GAA launched a number of initiatives, including Scór, the Club Development Scheme, and the Commission on the Affairs of the GAA. His presidency also brought the first International rules games with Australia.

After his presidency, he became Chairman of the Tipperary County Board, overseeing the launch of the Tipperary GAA Yearbook, and Féile na nGael in 1971.

Ó Riain was also an avid historian of the GAA, writing “Moneygall Hurling Story 1885-197″ (Wellbrook Press, Freshford, 1975) and “Maurice Davin (1842-1927): First President of the GAA” (Geography Publications, 1994).

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