It is with great sadness that Tennis Ireland has learned of the passing of Gerald (Gerry) More O’Ferrall, former President of Tennis Ireland and a much loved figure at Castleknock Lawn Tennis Club. Gerald gave decades of his life to the sport he loved, as a player, an administrator and a friend to so many in the Irish tennis community. We share the following tribute, kindly provided by his family.
Gerald devoted much of his life to voluntary service, particularly through his lifelong passion for tennis. His contribution to the sport extended far beyond his achievements on the court. He served as President and Chairman of Castleknock Lawn Tennis Club and remained involved on its board as Honorary President for many decades. He played an integral role in guiding the club through difficult times and helped it emerge as one of the premier tennis clubs in the country. He officiated at numerous junior and senior tennis tournaments, served as President of the Leinster Branch of Tennis Ireland and ultimately became President of Tennis Ireland.
During his tenure, Gerald oversaw the incorporation of a new national tennis coaching structure, leaving a lasting contribution to the organisation and development of the sport in Ireland. A keen and competitive player himself, he continued to play and enjoy tennis well into his eighties.
Gerald’s legacy lives on in the clubs, players, coaches and volunteers who continue to benefit from the foundations he helped to build. His dedication to tennis, on and off the court, touched generations, and he will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
On behalf of everyone at Tennis Ireland, we extend our deepest sympathies to Gerald’s family, his friends, and all at Castleknock Lawn Tennis Club.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Funeral details can be found here.
