Mick Duffy's book a compelling read
The launch of Mick Duffy’s book, The Making Of Memories, on Thursday evening in the Annebrook House Hotel, Mullingar was a memorable occasion.
Heroes of the successful 2004 Westmeath senior football side joined Mick Duffy, their former backroom team member for the occasion, at which Tomás Ó Flatharta officially launched the book. Ó Flatharta was team trainer under the late Páidí Ó Sé, the man who provided much of the inspiration for Westmeath’s historic breakthrough.
Mick Duffy, a native of Ballinafid, Multyfarnham, held the role of Communications Coordinator during the Ó Sé era and he recalls those heady days in what is a compelling memoir. The book is dominated by well-known tales of the great joy the 2004 success brought to the county, but it also delves into some of the hidden stories which had a negative influence.
The challenge of managing the larger than life character that was Páidí Ó Sé, problems with player commitment and an apathetic county board are all referenced in Duffy’s writings. The turbulent 2004 league campaign which led to players questioning the Kerry man’s suitability for the manager’s job and how he was close to being fired is also recalled.
As well, the book is a personal take on Duffy’s life, recalling his playing days with Multyfarnham and his refusal to attend a minor county trial as player welfare was non-existent in those days. It recalls how he led a wonderfully successful Westmeath supporters group in the years prior to 2004 which gave Westmeath players vital support and ensured costs were no barrier to success.
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Christine O'Keeffe, Michelle and Asumpta Duffy, at the launch of Mick Duffy's book, The Making of Memories.Image 2 of 13
Pat Davitt with Mick Duffy at the book launch.Image 3 of 13
Eamonn McGowan. Mick Duffy and Bill Collentine.Image 4 of 13
Mick Duffy with Paddy and Maura O'Brien from Athlone.Image 5 of 13
Mick Duffy with his new book.Image 6 of 13
Mick Duffy, author, signs a copy of his new book for for Paddy Gaynor.Image 7 of 13
Claire McLoughlin and Cara McCarthy at the book launch.Image 8 of 13
Margaret Clayton, Gerry Buckley and Tom Cornally.Image 9 of 13
Mick Duffy and Marie Burke.Image 10 of 13
Ollie Brennan and Sr. Concepta Brennan, with Mick Duffy.Image 11 of 13
Pat Collins, Mick Duffy and Janet Murray.Image 12 of 13
Marty Cahill from Knockdrin, Mullingar, enjoying the book.Image 13 of 13
Tomás Ó Flatharta officially launched the new book.The book also touches on Mr Duffy’s personal journey once his time involved with Westmeath was over and gives a very candid account of the emotional challenges that brought.
While the Leinster success brought unbridled joy, the book is hard-hitting and controversial in places, but nonetheless is a very honest and passionate assessment of Westmeath’s journey under the former Kerry star, a man who had won eight All-Ireland medals as a player.
Speakers on the evening included Ó Flatharta and Westmeath’s 2004 winning captain David O’Shaughnessy. Luke Dempsey, who managed the Westmeath senior side for three years up to and including 2003 and was nine years involved, leading the county to minor and U21 glory, also spoke.
MC on the evening was Westmeath Examiner columnist Bernie Comaskey.
Mr Duffy's book is not the first one on Westmeath's glory days, but it is certainly one that will generate discussion. Former Westmeath PRO Patrick Doherty produced Westmeath The Road to Glory following the 2004 victory over Laois.