There are some people whose impact is felt not through headlines or fanfare, but through decades of quiet, purposeful work that leaves a sport stronger, fairer, and more inclusive than it was before. On that foundation of service and integrity, Linda Kenny was fittingly honoured this evening at Croke Park with the Síghle Nic an Ultaigh Award, presented at the Camogie Association’s Volunteer, Media, and Referee Awards.
Linda Kenny’s journey within the GAA community spans generations and structures, touching club, county, provincial, and national levels. It is a story shaped by vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to people and participation.
A defining chapter began in 2007 when Linda, alongside a small group of determined volunteers, founded Burren Rangers Hurling and Camogie Club a groundbreaking achievement in an area traditionally dominated by football. She became the first Secretary of both Tinryland and Burren Rangers and dedicated nearly a decade to coaching under-8 teams, from 2007 to 2016. In doing so, she helped shape not just players, but confident young people, instilling belief, enjoyment, and pride in the jersey from the very first swing of a hurley.
Her contribution to the GAA pre-dated that landmark moment. As Secretary of Tinryland GAA and PRO of Coiste na nÓg, Carlow, Linda was already recognised as a dependable and forward-thinking administrator, someone who could be trusted to deliver with care and precision.
By 2009, that reputation had travelled well beyond club boundaries. Persuaded by then Carlow County Chairperson Pat O’Brien, Linda took on the role of Fixtures Secretary for Carlow Camogie, serving during a period of significant change as adult competitions were restructured at provincial and national level. She also assumed the role of Liaison Officer to the Carlow Adult County team, whose historic success in securing the All-Ireland Junior B Championship in 2012 remains a testament to the steady leadership and behind-the-scenes dedication that defined that era.
Leadership followed leadership. Linda served as Carlow County Secretary for five years before being elected County Chairperson, a role she carried with distinction for a further five years. Her influence continued to grow when she became Leinster Provincial Registrar in 2015, Provincial Secretary in 2018, and ultimately Leinster Chairperson in 2021 a position in which she left an enduring legacy.
At national level, her commitment was equally valued. Appointed to the NDP Committee in 2016, followed by the Volunteer and Officer Support Committee in 2017, Linda also served as PRO of the Féile Organising Committee, representing camogie with professionalism, warmth, and authority.
Recognition came in 2021 with the awarding of Gradaim an Uachtaráin, acknowledging years of outstanding service. More recently, Linda has played a central role in the Leinster Poc Fada, and as Chairperson of the Meaningful Game-Time Committee, she championed a data-driven approach to player retention, ensuring evidence informed action. In 2024, she was appointed Chairperson of the National Games Management Committee, a role she continues to fulfil with calm authority and unwavering fairness.
What sets Linda Kenny apart is not simply the breadth of roles held, but the standard at which each was delivered. She is known for holding herself and the structures around her to the highest level of excellence. She does not seek recognition, nor does she court attention. Her motivation is rooted firmly in purpose.
During her tenure as Leinster Chairperson, she strengthened collaboration with Leinster GAA, securing valuable double-header opportunities, founded the Leinster Coaching Academy which has already produced 32 newly trained coaches, and was instrumental in increasing the Develolmeny Grant for each Leinster county from €1,500 to €5,000 a transformative investment in the future of the game.
Quiet in manner yet resolute when decisions must be made, Linda Kenny embodies integrity, generosity, and vision. Her belief in development, inclusion, and opportunity has shaped pathways for players, volunteers, and administrators alike.
For these reasons and for countless hours of unseen work the presentation of the Síghle Nic an Ultaigh award stands as a deeply fitting tribute. Linda Kenny’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and heart, and camogie is richer for her lifelong commitment.
Congratulations Linda!!
