KCLR News: Cllr Michael McCarthy's tribute to Freshford's Gordon Ryan (August 8th, 2026)

Tributes have been paid to Freshford native, All-Ireland winning Kilkenny hurler and retired Garda Superintendent Gordon Ryan, who died on Thursday last, July 30th. Mr Ryan, who was a resident of Ballinakill Downs in Waterford City, was a hugely respected figure within Gaelic Games and was a member of the All-Ireland winning Kilkenny senior panels in 1982 and 1983. A year later, Gordon enjoyed further success when landing a County Intermediate title with Saint Lachtain's. In the early 1990s, Gordon joined Ballygunner Hurling Club and later wore the red and black of the Gunners, winning Waterford Senior Championship medals in 1996 and 1997. Having managed Ballygunner to its first Munster Senior Club title in 2001 (his first year in charge), Gordon returned to Saint Lachtain's where he managed the club to the County, Leinster and All-Ireland treble in the 2009/2010 season. Freshford-based County Councillor Michael McCarthy described Gordon Ryan as a talented hurler, a great clubman and a loyal friend.