Joe Canning appointed Honorary Armagh County President

Well known gael Joseph Canning from Mountnorris has been most deservedly awarded the title of Honorary Armagh County President, during a recent function at the Athletic Grounds in the city.

Joe has been involved in Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Ard Mhacha since the 1960’s when he took up the role of club secretary, a position he held for 12 years in St Killian’s GAC, Whitecross. He held the position of South Board secretary and later was elected as County Board Treasurer for an incredible 20 years.

During his time as Treasurer of the County Board, Joe met many challenges along the way including the difficulties in raising sufficient finance to meet county expenditures. He worked closely with county management teams and was secretary of the Minor Board when Armagh won the 1968 Ulster Minor championship and County Treasurer when Armagh reached the All Ireland final in 1977.

Speaking about Joe, County Chairman Michael Savage said “Joseph Canning has passionately served as a volunteer for our county for many years and I am delighted on behalf of Contae Ard Mhacha to tribute this honour to Joe as our County President.

“Steeped in the GAA for many years having began his service as club secretary and current Club President of his beloved St. Killian’s GAC, Whitecross, Joe is a lifelong volunteer to our association.

“At both club and county he carried out various administrative positions, as well as working alongside and supporting the notable county teams of 1968 and 1977.  Throughout this time, Joe was instrumental in supporting the players and management teams.

“Anyone who knows Joe will resonate the genuine, true Armagh Gael who devoted so much of his time and contributed to the development of our county. I want to take this opportunity to thank Joe and his family, and congratulate him as Honorary President of Contae Ard Mhacha.”

Joe was joined on the night by his sister Angela, relations and representatives from St Killian's GAC, Whitecross.

You can hear more about Joe at WWW.GAA.IE where he talks as part of an oral history project.