​Mickey McAleese RIP - St Mary’s Rasharkin

Mickey McAleese - St Mary’s Rasharkin

It’s with great sadness we learn of the death of our former player and club mentor Mickey McAleese.

Mickey, was an all-round sportsman and enjoyed playing a number of different sports. A native and a former player of Roger Casements GAC Portglenone where he was born into a family steeped in Gaelic Games.

Mickey’s juvenile career blossomed from his early years, playing rugby for Ballymena Academy during his second level education which broadened his skills and tenacity. Casements loss was St Mary’s gain with his transfer to Rasharkin after Mickey moved address following the Marriage to his wife, Pauline.

Mickey enjoyed many successful playing years for the club. His talents were also recognised at Official Antrim GAA level during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His County connection continued with his sons Ryan and Jonathan both representing the County as well as many of his nephews also doing so from St Mary’s and Roger Casements.

His club midfield partnership with his near neighbour and close friend Gerard McTaggart ensured our senior footballers achieved many satisfying wins. On many occasions, more illustrious opponents played second fiddle to this midfield pairing.

Mickey also formed one of the best managerial partnerships in Rasharkin's history, along with good friend Sean McTaggart. Their managerial prowess resulted in Minor Football Championship titles in 1994 and 1999 and an U21 Championship in 1997. These juvenile teams were a conveyor belt of talent, and formed the basis of our Senior team for many years that followed.

Our sincere condolences to Pauline, Ryan, Johnathan and the extended McAleese family.

Go ndèana an tiarna Tròcaire ar a anam