One of Monaghan’s favourites sons, Sean McCaffrey, passed away in December of 2017, however It was felt that due to the huge impact that Sean had on people both locally and nationally that his name and legacy should stay alive.
McCaffrey was just 58 years old when illness got the better of him, but he was a man who inspired so many people, particularly young people. As a football coach McCaffrey had the unenviable task of trying to succeed the Irish football legend that is Brian Kerr at Irish underage level after Kerr moved onto the Senior team in 2003.
During his seven years as Irish youth manager the U-17’s qualified for the European Championships in 2008 in Turkey. Some members of that squad were Cork City captain Johnny Dunleavy, Gearóid Morrissey, Bray’s John Sullivan, Conor Hourihane, Richie Towell, Irish Internationals Robbie Brady and Greg Cunningham, He also worked with other current Internationals Darren Randolph and Stephen Ward during his time.
Sean is very well remembered locally for running a schoolboy club called Oriel Celtic , who had success in many international tournaments such as the Holland cup. He also took QPR, Liverpool, Man Utd and Ajax youth teams to play in Monaghan against Oriel Celtic.
He was also manager of League of Ireland clubs Monaghan United, where he was involved in the establishment of the club, and Dundalk.
Due to Sean’s popularity a foundation is being set up in his honour. The main focus of the foundation is to make a positive impact in the community. During his illness Sean spent 4 years receiving Dialysis at Cavan hospital, while he also had a great love for animals.
The primary objectives of the Sean McCaffrey Foundation are:
- Help young people reach their full potential in their lives, coaching and development
- Support patients attending the Renal Dialysis Unit in Cavan Hospital
- Support groups who cater for animal welfare
The Sean McCaffrey Foundation will be officially launched on the 3rd of June 2018 at the Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan Town. A dinner dance event will take place in which they will recognise the impact Sean had on so many people. The proceeds of the event will go to the Foundation
Sean is due to be recognised for his work at the Senior International friendly game against the United States on June 2nd, the night prior to the event.
It is the intention to develop the foundation towards charity status, so that people can donate or fundraise on an ongoing basis. More information about the night will be released in the coming weeks.
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