Peter O'Donnell talks about Msgr. James Pierse
Peter O'Donnell talks about Msgr. James Pierse
Recorded: 2011
Length: 16mins

In this interview, Msgr. Pierse's nephew Peter O Donnell talks at length with Weeshie about his uncle's achievements.

Msgr. Pierse was Kerry's oldest living All Ireland medal holder until his death on February 22nd, 2011 at the age of 92. Born in Ballinorrig in 1918, the eldest of 8, he played football with John Mitchels and also was an accomplished hurler. He won his senior All Ireland football medal in 1941 as a seminarian and also one a Junior All Ireland medal that year. He became a priest in 1944 and left for the USA shortly afterwards where he served in the Los Angeles area for the rest of his life.

He also excelled as a golfer winning numerous trophies. He also wrote a poem called a "Golfer's Prayer" for someone who retired from a local country club.

O Lord,
This game I play is symbolic of human life
With a first tee filled with youthful promise
And a last putt charged with eternal destiny.

Check my grip on the Good Book,
Fashion my stance to the Golden Rule
Mold my motion in the habit of virtue
Groove my swing in the path of self-discipline.

Direct my shots down the middle of life's fairway.
Preserve me from mean hooks and fat slices.
Protect me within the bounds
of Thy Commandments
Deliver me from the bunkers of temptation
Sustain me with the vision of a nineteenth hole
in an eternal tomorrow

When my last stroke is recorded
on the final green of life
May I be judged worthy to receive the award
Promised to all true sports
who compete according to the rules
Your perpetual trophy a-niche
in the heavenly hall of fame



1925 Kerry County Champions - John Mitchels

Los Angeles GAA Team - Msgr. Pierse is #13



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