Regret in passing of Cormac Dineen
CORK and Millstreet has lost one of its football legends on the death yesterday of Cormac Dineen. One of the most identifiable Cork footballers of his generation, he provided a rocklike presence in the last line of defence. Whether it was with club in the county championship or lining out with Cork, the Millstreet man always gave off his very best and no easy scores were recorded against him.
Cormac Dineen came to light on playing a key role on helping Millstreet to capture its lone County SFC title in 1948 on defeating St Vincents. Consistent form secured the veterinary student selection on the Cork team that captured the 1949 Munster SFC.
His calm and assured play gathered a regular berth with Cork. A highlight surfaced in 1952, part and parcel of a Cork team that won its first National Football League title. Fellow clubmen Denis Toots and Teddy Kelleher also figured with Cork. And on the opposing New York team in the decider was former Millstreet club colleague from 1948, Den Connors who had won an All Ireland SFC medal with Cork in 1945.
Cormac Dineen collected another Munster SFC medal later in 1952 but an injury in the early minutes to the All Ireland semi final against Cavan robbed Cork of one of its pillars of strength.
In a professional career, Cormac Dineen won respect far and wide as a vet and also maintained a lifelong link with Millstreet Town Park where he held the position of treasurer from 1977 up to his death.
Sympathy is extended to his wife and family. Ar dheis De go raibh an aimn dilis.
