Tim ODonnell [Gleann Na Geal]

Tim O’Donnell, while a member of the Garda Siochana based in Killarney in the early 1930s threw in his lot with the Dr’ Crokes and was their best player for many years. A holder of three All Ireland medals, three National Leagues and a Railway Cup over a long playing career he was a big asset to the club in his prime years.  

A report of the East Kerry Semi-Final in the early 30s stated ‘Tim O’ Donnell was in tip top form at midfield for Crokes’ and in 1934 he was one of three All Ireland medal holders-Bill Landers, Tim O’ Donnell, and Dee Conner who turned in great performances for the club in the Co’ Championship. 1935 was the year he captained New Street in the Town League and led them to victory and was cheered off the field holding the John Clifford cup.                

               1935 was also the year Kerry stood down at Inter County level and organized no games,  league or championship, within the county until all republican prisoners were released.

               Tim O’ Donnell was transferred to Dublin but Dr’ Crokes legend and Kerry selector Small Jerry O’ Leary made sure he was’t lost to Kerry. Jerry;who had good contacts in the high office of the Garda Siochana arranged to get him back on duty for the Summer season and so be available for the county.

               A report of the launching of The Dr’ Crokes Gaelic Century in 1986 remarked that Tim O’ Donnell was in jovial mood at the East Avenue where he was a guest of his old club.