Ken retires after 35 years
A face known to many around the streets of Templemore retired from an Garda Síochána on Friday, May 1.
Ken Hogan spent 35 years in the Garda College, having arrived here in 1990. The proud Lorrha man passed out in 1983 following six months training in Templemore and was first stationed at Pearse Street Garda station in Dublin where he spent seven years. During that time Ken developed a keen interest in progressing his skill set as a Garda teacher, trainer and instructor and, having completed a number of courses in this field, he was relocated to Templemore in 1990. Here he taught in many different areas over the years including swimming, physical education, life-saving, self-defence and tactical training in more recent years.
GAA has been central to Ken’s entire life and this was no different during his time in the Garda College. Following their purchase of land opposite the graveyard in the mid-1990s there was a huge volume of work ahead in the development of the present playing fields, which now include GAA, rugby and soccer pitches along with accompanying dressing rooms. Ken played a significant role in this project under the Chairmanship of Jim Mulligan and Secretary Helen Cullagh.
Once development was complete, Ken became heavily involved in the training of the college teams who participated at the highest level in the Fitzgibbon, Sigerson, Ryan, Asbourne and Purcell cups. Ken formed many great friendships during this time including those with Tom McGlinchey, Seamus Delaney, Ailish Myles, Sandra Gillick, Mick O’Connell, Tom Collum, Pat Phelan and Kevin Ludlow. His excellent coaching skills were noted locally also and Ken took up the mantle as coach to the JK Brackens Intermediate team.
Unfortunately, they lost successive County finals in 1996 and 1997 but, under his leadership, they attained Senior status in 1998, a place they have remained to this day and a record JK Brackens are very proud of. Ken’s presence around the town of
Templemore has always been felt and he loved to go for his daily jog. The people of Templemore, with whom he struck up a great rapport, wish you the happiest of retirements and thank you for your contribution to our town over the last 35 years.