Garryowen Football Club

Garryowen Football Club (Irish: Cumann Rugbaí Gharraí Eoin), usually referred to as Garryowen, is a rugby union club from Limerick, Ireland. As at the 2023–24 season, it plays in Division 1B of the All-Ireland League. Historically, Garryowen has been one of the most successful clubs in Irish rugby union. History The club was formed in 1884. The founding members of the club were: President W.L. Stokes Secretary J. Gogarty Treasurer M. L. Joyce Captain J.O'Sullivan Messrs. Patrick Stapleton, Tom Prendergast, J.O'Connor, J.G.O'Brien, Roche, Riordan, Pender, Gilligan and Dick Founding member of the club, W.L.Stokes, had a huge influence on the game in Limerick during the 1880s. He made sure Garryowen received Union recognition in 1884. If not for his tireless work promoting rugby, Garryowen might never have begun. Another great family linked to Garryowen were the O'Connors. John O'Connor was a founder member of the club and his seven sons were prominent rugby players, runners and oarsmen of national and international renown. They won 47 Munster senior cup medals between them beginning in the early 1890s. Born in Athlunkard Street, Limerick, the seven brothers - Mick, Charlie, Jack, Thade, Joe, Bryan and Jim - set an impressive record with 47 medals. Jack with 11 had the most. His son, Mick, won 4 further Munster Senior Cup medals between 1925 and 1934. The club has had two fixed homes: the Markets Field until 1957, then the club moved to Dooradoyle. After the club moved, Garryowen (which had won the Senior cup in 1954) did not achieve success again for 15 years – the longest period in the club's history without a cup win. It was not till 1969 that another led to a glorious period for the club with probably the finest collection of players since the great nine in row team. With 5 senior cups coming in the next 10 years. There was also great success on the international scene with 6 players getting capped for Ireland in this time.