Buccaneers pays tribute after passing of a true club legend
It was with massive sadness that Buccaneers RFC heard of the death of Pat Hynes, a truly iconic figure in Athlone and Buccaneers rugby for many decades.
He was undoubtedly the most loved member in the club, although he would surely squirm at that description. Pat passed away aged 71 following a lengthy illness bravely borne with fortitude in his own positive manner.
Known far and wide, in many sporting circles and beyond, simply as 'Big Pat’, he made a huge contribution to the club that he absolutely loved. He played with distinction in the colours of Athlone RFC for many seasons, captaining them in the 1984 Connacht Junior Cup final having played on the team that won the same Cup in 1979.
Following his lengthy playing career, Pat then coached and managed various teams including the senior squad in the club. He also served in various administrative roles including Football Chairperson and his immeasurable voluntary work ranged from marking pitches, painting dressing-rooms, stewarding on Ireland U-20 match nights, putting up match signs and, on one memorable occasion, holding up a broken crossbar during an AIL match. Refereeing was possibly the only rugby challenge he never undertook!
He was involved in many strands of the club but found his true niche in latter years as Facilities Manager and he was immensely proud of the facilities at Dubarry Park where he minded the pitches and dressing-rooms area like gold dust. Dare any team risk treading on a pitch without his say so!
He took deep pleasure in the achievements of Buccaneers players such as Robbie Henshaw and Jack Carty and derived great satisfaction in framing their and others' representative jerseys to put on display in the clubhouse where he also erected numerous photographs of teams and players, past and present.
Pat was President of Athlone RFC in 1990/91 and, 20 years later, he was elected President of Buccaneers RFC in 2010/11, thus becoming the first club member to be honoured as President of the club under its former and present names. His efforts on behalf of the club were recognised when he won the coveted ‘Club Person of the Year’ award in 2012.
His passion for the club knew no bounds, so much so that he not only took to the stage in 2016’s “Strictly Scrum Dancing” but emerged the most popular of victors! He had a great love of animals too with a faithful dog called ‘Bundee’ after one of his favourite rugby players, while his inimitable sense of humour is evidenced by naming his donkey (or ass as Pat referred to the mammal) ‘Louis’ after a player who did not meet his standards!
A man of real generosity and integrity, Big Pat’s trojan endeavours on behalf of the club over many decades will be irreplaceable. The term ‘legend’ is too readily bandied about nowadays but the description is so apt for the man from south-east Roscommon.
His loss will be greatest to his wife Peggy, son Patrick, daughter-in-law Maria, his beloved grandchildren Maja, Jenna and Patrick, and sister Maureen. Heartfelt condolences are extended to them and the wider family and circle of friends and colleagues.
May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. Ní bheidh a leithéad arís ann.
Patrick ('Big Pat') Hynes of Liberty, Ballydangan and formerly of Baylough, Athlone died a after a long illness at Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe on April 11. He is deeply regretted by his loving wife Peggy, son Patrick, daughter-in-law Maria, grandchildren Maja, Jenna and Patrick, sister Maureen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, neighbours, friends and his colleagues in Buccaneers and wider rugby circles.
Reposing at his residence today (Wednesday, April 13) from 3pm until 8pm. Removal on Thursday to St Mary's Church, Moore for funeral liturgy at 1pm, followed by burial in Moore New Cemetery.
- Michael Silke