Dr. Tom A. Barrett
Sad news from Canada was the recent report of the death of Dr. Tom Barrett who was a prominent and popular member of the club in the late 60’s early 70’s and indeed captained the club in 1970/71. This was an era when trophies were scarce but great fun was had by all and friendships made then endured to the present day.
Tom was an enthusiastic and popular captain who always led from the front and indeed played for Munster during that season. It was my honour to be bag man that year and I have many happy memories of Tom. He took great pride when the team took the Sean O’Carroll trophy that year beating a Shannon team in its pomp. I also remember his team talk in a Galway Hotel which terrified the families in the adjoining dining room. Teammates that year included Billy O’Mahony, Pat Parfrey, Kevin Kidney brother of Declan and a youthful Dick Kenefick. In the Munster Cup against young Munster, Tom’s total commitment led to his sending off (straight red) in the early minutes and in the ensuing mêlée another college players jersey was ripped apart. The bag of course was empty (current players please note) and thus I had to approach a still fuming Tom on the sideline and asked him for the shirt off his back. The conversation proved difficult and short. It was a credit to the man that normal service resumed in the Star later that evening.
When Tom qualified he emigrated to Canada and had a successful medical practice in Vancouver for many years thereafter. When the club toured there in 1979 he proved to be a generous and tolerant host well experienced with enthusiastic students. I didn’t see him in recent years but everyone who did said he never changed and kept close links with home. He accepted his illness with bravery and made light of its many problems.
Beneath his brash exterior Tom was a kind and caring person as his many friends, colleagues, and patients were to find out. The club expresses their sympathy to his Wife and family on their sad loss.
It was a privilege to have known such a fine human being.
Matthew Morehan
Hon. Senior Secretary
UCC RFC
