THE manager who brought Darran O’Sullivan into the Kerry senior squad said he was a great leader in 2009 when he had the honour of captaining Kerry and bringing the Sam Maguire back to his native Glenbeigh/Glencar.
Jack O’Connor said when Darran came on the scene for the Kerry senior team in 2006, aged 19, he had been a brilliant minor and his pace and direct running set him apart.
“He scored a memorable goal in the 06 quarter-final against Armagh when it was badly needed. He dispossessed Enda McNulty and took off to score the decisive goal after Kerry had been reduced to 14 men,” O’Connor recalled.
“Darran was a very difficult man to nail down because of his pace and low centre of gravity,” he added.
“In his latter years injury curtailed his appearances but he can be very proud of his contribution to Kerry football. He got us out of many a tight corner and he will be fondly remembered by the Kerry supporters,” O’Connor said.
Another former manager, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, said Darran had given fantastic service to the Kerry jersey over a long period of time.
“He is a member of two exclusive clubs having made his championship debut in his first year out of minor in 2005 and having lifted Sam Maguire as captain in 2009, a personal pinnacle.
“His explosive all-action style meant he was a fans’ favourite from the off and right up until his last appearance against Kildare in this year’s championship, he has excited people every time he touched the ball”.
Fitzmaurice said Darran’s honesty and work ethic shone through and behind the happy go lucky, easy going exterior, there is a steely determination and ambition.
“His selflessness meant he played in every position in the forward line, both as a starter and finisher, depending on what was best for the team. His attitude regardless of the role demanded of him was always top class,” his former manager stated.
“His best season was 2011 when he terrorised defences throughout the year and scored an outrageously instinctive goal against Limerick.
“His personality and leadership skills will be missed from the dressing room,” the former Kerry manager stated.
Kerry County Board Chairman, Tim Murphy, thanked Darran for dedicating a major part of his life to the county.
“There are few players with the record that Darren has achieved. Darran is a true gentleman and has been an incredible ambassador for Kerry,” he said.
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