Seamus Whelan

Séamus Whelan recalls his involvement with the GAA in Westmeath over the years. Originally from Castletown Geoghegan, he played both hurling and football and enjoyed going to GAA games as a spectator. He played on school teams and eventually became a teacher himself, training children in schools and managing them through competitions. He became involved in administration with Castletown Geoghegan and was soon a delegate to the county board, before becoming Westmeath County Board Chairman. In this position he set about promoting football within the county by trying to improve structures. He also put a lot of work into encouraging Irish language, culture and Scór. One of the major projects he worked on was the redevelopment of Cusack Park, and he describes this process in detail. When he wasn't busy with that he had to attend other matters such as clubs with grievances, or disciplinary matters. Séamus needed many skills for this position - persuasion, diplomacy, patience, self-belief and a little bit of luck. A GAA man through and through, he has seen how the Association works at all levels and hopes that it continues to be a positive force, although there are certain issues - like player power and a lack of respect for match officials - that he would like to see properly addressed sooner rather than later.