Tubberclair and Temple Villa pay tribute after loss of popular figure

Both Tubberclair GAA and Temple Villa AFC have paid tribute to renowned former player Johnny Hamm, following his death in Australia.

Johnny was on the Tubberclair team which won the club's first and only Westmeath senior football title, defeating St Malachy's in the 1985 final, 40 years ago this year. Johnny also played soccer for Temple Villa, where he was a very popular figure with the Mount Temple-based club.

Tubberclair GAA posted earlier this week: "The news we received yesterday, that Johnny Hamm had lost his battle and was resting in peace, shocked us all. Johnny was a character, full of life, immensely talented and always up for a laugh.

"His exploits in the green and gold of Tubberclair are well documented. A classy wing back, he was an integral part of all our championship winning teams. He never took a backward step, he loved a challenge.

"Life for Johnny was for living. He departed these shores in search of a greater challenge. Australia became his home but he never forgot his roots. He has left this world too soon, too young to go, with so much more to do.

"To his devastated family. we offer our sincere sympathies. Linda, Robbie, Shane, Bernie, the Hamm and Sweeney families, words alone are not sufficient to help you as you grieve for the loss of someone so special. His teammates from Tubberclair share in your grief.

"Tubberclair GAA club offers its support and sympathies. The golden gates will open to welcome a fantastic individual. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis," the club tribute continued.

Paying tribute to the late Mr Hamm in a post online, Temple Villa said: "Temple Villa extends its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of former Villa player Johnny Hamm. Soundest man ever blessed with a lovely quick wit, the word friendly describes him best.

"Johnny was a very stylish and unassuming footballer with both Villa and Tubberclair GAA. We lost a good one. May he rest in peace."