Anto Maguire RIP

Everyone at St Patrick's Athletic is saddened by the news of the death of Anthony Maguire after illness.

Anto was our Head Groundsman for almost 20 years, he joined the club in 2003 and retired just last year.

Anto did a terrific job overseeing the maintenance and upkeep of Richmond Park, with particular attention to the playing surface, which was one of the best in the league during his tenure.

Maguire was a familiar and friendly face around the ground for almost two decades and he will be sorely missed by all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Anto's family and friends.

St Patrick's Athletic General Manager Anthony Delaney said: "All at the club were shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Anto. He was part of the fabric of the club, and although recently retired, he was still a frequent visitor to the ground during last season.

Anto's hard work ensured that we had a stadium and pitch that players loved playing on and that spectators enjoyed visiting.

Anto will be sorely missed by his colleagues in St Patrick's Athletic and beyond, our condolences and sympathies are with the Maguire family at this difficult time, may he rest in peace"

Fellow groundsman Dave Carter sent this tribute into the Saint;

"I first met Anthony when I joined the club as assistant groundsman in 2006 and we worked together for 16 years, in all sorts of conditions! Anto was an absolute professional, he was an absolutely amazing gentleman to work with. He really loved Richmond Park, and he taught me everything that I should know about the pitch and the club, and the connection between the ground, the team and the surrounding community. On a personal level, I am really going to miss him and I know the whole club will too. We will continue to do our best to maintain his high standards! Rest well Anto."

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis