Kilkenny and the wider Camogie community are mourning the passing of former President of the Camogie Association and a renowned player Mary Fennelly.
Mary comes from a strong gaelic games family. She was a first-cousin of All-Star hurlers, Liam and Ger Fennelly. John Fennelly.
Mary’s father, chaired the Kilkenny Camogie Board while her sister, Bríd, played alongside her, she was a key figure in Camogie, dedicating her life to playing and advancing the sport.
Mary captained Kilkenny to victory in the 1976 All-Ireland senior championship and ended her playing career with three All-Ireland senior titles, two All-Ireland club championships with St. Paul’s, two Gael-Linn titles with Leinster, and several Kilkenny and Dublin championship medals. She gained administrative experience as secretary of both the Kilkenny County Board and Leinster Council, eventually becoming President of the Camogie Association in 1982. Mary dedicated herself to enhancing the image of Camogie and was a passionate advocate for the 15-a-side game.
As President of the Camogie Association, she was a passionate advocate for women’s sport.
Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her.
