Frankly Forde

From The Congo’s frontline to the pitch’s sideline

LIAM Forde is a man who never shies away from a verbal joust, be it in a work capacity, a sporting context, or simply a chance meeting on the street. If Liam believes something, he’ll be sure to let you know in no uncertain terms. No one, stature, status, or creed is spared. Though, it might also be fair to say his bark is worse than his bite.

A solider in the Irish army, successful businessman for decades, GAA referee and administrator, and a one-time Galway ladies senior football manager – these are just a sprinkling of the different pathways that the 81-year-old can attest to experiencing during his storied journey.

Time flitters away in his presence and with each name that surfaces during our conversation a different tangent we follow. There’s an encyclopaedia of tales hidden inside his cranium, even if, admittedly, some of his stories are perhaps a tad too hot for public consumption. More than once he tells me to stop writing during our interview – as what’s said simply can’t be put into ink. Still, there are more than enough nuggets to glean from this man’s life story.

Up until recently, many people will remember him for his voluntary role at Kenny Park, Athenry, on matchdays. Team announcements and regiment adherence to the five-minute warning for substitutes to leave the playing field were regular features during his reign…

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