is most likely Michael, a brother of the aforementioned Anthony Freaney of Mountain West. The only other M. Freaney in the locality is a brother of Mick and Myles – his name was Martin – and as he was only 9 in 1911, it could not be him. It is possible that M. Higgins above listed as playing in this match should be W. Higgins, as the latter is not mentioned. Also the Higgins family never heard any mention of William and Richard’s brother Mike ever playing hurling. But then on the other hand perhaps he was involved and was a sub on the team and the family didn’t know about it. Therefore we have Myles Freaney of Derrydonnell Beg, Anthony and Michael Freaney of Mountain West and Mike Higgins of Lisheenkyle West, as possible subs on the team. Myles Freaney, brother of Mick Freaney was aged 18 in 1911 and was the second son of Anthony and Mary Freeney. Anthony and Michael Freeney were the eldest sons of Michael and Honor Freeney. In 1911 they were aged 20 and 18 respectively. Mike Higgins was second in the family but eldest of the sons of Martin Bhilie and Mary Higgins. He was aged 32 in 1911. Descendants of the 1911 team. Players ( St. Mary’s GAA Club - Adult) Mick Freeney – his son Anthony and his grandsons Michael and Ollie. Pat Keane – his grandsons Séan and Donal and great-grandsons Cathal and Dara. William Higgins – his sons Mattie (William) and Micheál and grandson Joe. Richard Higgins – his sons Joe, Msgr. Paddy, Fr Richie and great-grandson Aidan. Nephews of the William and Richard Higgins – Mattie (Pat), Pake and John, grand-nephews Michael, Pat, Declan, Brian, Kevin and great-grandnephew Darren. Martin Kennedy – grandnephew Michael. Martin Ruane – sons (and nephews of Jack Ruane) Seán, Pake, Stephen, Alo and grandson Tony and Stephen. Other nephews of Jack and Martin Ruane – Jim, Matt, Gill and Peader. Officers (St. Mary’s GAA Club) Pake Ruane served as Chairman and Treasurer for long periods. Michael Higgins served as Chairman and is the present Treasurer. Seán Keane is the present Vice Chairman. IIt is also worth drawing attention to the fact that there were other descendants of these men who played hurling with other clubs throughout Galway County. Similarly younger brothers of these men continued the tradition and played hurling for Derrydonnell but unfortunately not with the same success as the 1911 winning team. Though some enjoyed the Junior success of 1929. 37
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