Tributes paid as former Camogie Association president Mary Fennelly passes away 

2004: Mary Fennelly, centre, with Bertie Ahern, TD, and Miriam O'Callaghan. Pic: Ray McManus / SPORTSFILE

The Kilkenny Camogie Board has expressed its sympathy to the Fennelly family on the passing of former president of the Camogie Association, Mary.

Fennelly - a former Kilkenny captain - won three All-Ireland medals before becoming president of the association in 1982. 

"Mary played camogie for Presentation Secondary school, Carrickshock, St Paul's, Celtic (Dublin), and was a former secretary of Kilkenny County board and Leinster Council," read a statement. "She was on the Kilkenny first winning All-Ireland team in 1974 and she was captain in 1976. 

"She won three All-Ireland senior medals in 1974, 1976 and 1977 and two All-Ireland club medals and many county titles with St. Paul's.

"Mary was the ninth Uachtarán of the Camogie Association in 1982 and was a strong advocate of the 15-a-side game.

"Mary was also instrumental in starting the Primary Schools competitions in Kilkenny, she was passionate about the game and made a huge contribution to the development of Camogie We were delighted she was able to attend our celebration of the 50th anniversary of their 1974 win last July.

"May Mary Rest in Peace."