St Mary's College RFC Yearbook 2020-21

“LIAM, DO I KNOW YOU?”
Liam, Do I know you? Sometimes it is worth
making the effort to get to know a person
and if you don’t know Liam already, make
the effort to get to know him. It is worth a
laugh from the start and for lots more
reasons later on; for he is a special person
and Marys’ man. It is Liam Birkett to whom I
refer.
The club has grown enormously over the
years and it is not always possible to know
everyone and sometimes, even persons who
have contributed seminally for very many
years. In the distant past, (only a few
summers ago to us superannuated
members), Liam was in St Mary’s College, at
school, where he developed his skills in
gurning, conkers, escapology from classes
he did not fancy, ink bombs; and other
useful hobbies. Although, he played rugby,
he was most proficient in football and
basketball, much to the chagrin of certain
clerical gentlemen. In fact, Liam got Irish
Schoolboys’ final trials for both. He had
spent four years in the Junior School and six
in the Senior School, becoming talented in
maths. He always says it was the best 13
years he ever spent!
When he left school, he remained attached
to his alma mater, was president of the PPU,
and remains involved to this day. After his
school days he soon joined St Mary’s College
RFC, then at College Drive. Being a hefty 10
stone 12 pounds (64.3Kg) naturally, he
played prop. He played junior rugby all
during the 60s and enjoyed greatly the
game, the camaraderie and the après match.
He captained the 3rd Bs (J4s). He was
always great company with a sharp wit,
generous nature and happy countenance. He
remained part of the club since, and has
constantly contributed. His loyalty and
dedication are resolute.
He attends all the AIL games in which Mary’s
play and is a knowledgeable supporter. Liam
found himself involved in all the
Liam Birkett and
former President
of Ireland,
Mary McAleese
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