Michael Walsh inducted into Hall of Fame ahead of Cup Final

Waterford FC stalwart Michael Walsh received one of the club's highest honours when he was inducted into the Waterford FC Hall of Fame ahead of Sunday's FAI Cup final at the Aviva Stadium.

The long-serving Blues man was presented with his award by FAI President Paul Cooke during the pre-match festivities, recognising an extraordinary lifetime of service to the club spanning more than six decades.

Walsh's association with Waterford dates back to 1965, the same year the Blues captured their first League of Ireland title. What began as a volunteer role at Kilcohan Park developed into a remarkable commitment to the club, making him one of the most respected and recognisable figures in Waterford FC history.

Known to generations of players, supporters and officials, Walsh has become synonymous with the club through his tireless behind-the-scenes work over the past 60 years.

Reflecting on how his journey first began, Walsh recalled being asked to help out around the ground after one of the gates had fallen down.

"One of the main gates fell down and they put it back up, and I was asked to stand on the inside of the gate to stop people from climbing in over the fence, and that's how it all started for me," he said.

His involvement quickly grew as he helped with various duties around the club before eventually becoming kitman, a role in which he became a much-loved figure among Waterford squads across several eras.

"There were two other men involved, one looking after the pitch and one looking after the gear, so I was brought in to give them a dig out. The then kitman left, and I was asked would I fill in until they got somebody, and here I am 60 years later," Walsh said.

Throughout his decades of service, Walsh earned the admiration of countless players who wore the Waterford jersey. Even former players returning to the RSC regularly seek him out on matchdays, highlighting the esteem in which he is held throughout Irish football circles.

The honour also reflects the deep connection between the Walsh family and Waterford FC. His grandson, Richy Walsh, now serves as the club's Chief Operating Officer, continuing a family association that has stretched across generations.

The Hall of Fame induction was a fitting tribute to a man whose dedication has helped shape the club for over six decades and whose contribution extends far beyond football.

As Waterford prepared to contest the biggest game in the club's recent history, supporters inside the Aviva Stadium warmly applauded one of the true custodians of the Blues when he accepted his award from FAI President Paul Cooke.

For Michael Walsh, a volunteer who first walked through the gates of Kilcohan Park in 1965, it was recognition richly deserved.