Jim Stynes (23 April 1966-20 March 2012)

It had been known for some time that Jim had a life-threatening illness but that did not diminish the shock or sadness when the news came through that he had lost his valiant battle.  His struggle with cancer was fought, in part, in public and his determined bid to overcome the disease was in many respects his finest hour.  His courage and bravery at this most difficult time was inspirational and no doubt his example must be a cause of great pride to his family at this most difficult time and a source of hope to many who suffer illness of any kind.

Club Chair Terry O’Neill in a tribute said:

“To most people, Jim is known as one of Ireland’s best known international superstars but at moments like this our thoughts must be of – Jim the husband, father, son, brother and friend.  Their loss is immeasurable and being connected to someone who is so well-known in both Australia and Ireland must have added an additional burden.  But there must also be consolation to see someone touch the lives of so many and to leave so many happy memories behind.”

Jim was born in 1966, a significant year in itself for Ireland and the symbolism of which would not be lost in a family that had connections with the Irish struggle for freedom.  He attended Ballyroan Boys National School, a short step from the family home (John Joe O’Sullivan was one of his teachers) and at the age of 9 joined Ballyboden St Endas as a member of the Under 11 football team.  Being a big lad, he was not out of his depth.  His parents Brian and Tess were and remain deeply committed to gaelic games and all things Irish so it was no surprise that they would gravitate to the club like so many similar-minded families in the area.

In recent years, the club has enjoyed huge success on the playing fields regularly winning championships in all codes particularly at underage levels.  But back in the 1980s, the club was not overburdened with silverware.  However, a major breakthrough was made in 1981 when the club won the Under 16 football championship with Jim Stynes as a key player along with the likes of Ger Flaherty, Ben Molloy, Brendan Young, Gary Flynn and others.  The mentors of the side were his father Brian and Kieran O’Malley.   This was the first juvenile championship won by the club.

Jim caught the attention of the Dublin minor selectors and took part in a number of challenge games.  However his big break came in September 1984 when he was a dressing room call-up to the team that beat Tipperary in the GAA Centenary Year All-Ireland Minor Football Final.

A few weeks later he was successful in his application to join the Melbourne Demons in what was known then as the “Irish Experiment”.  He went on to become one of Aussie Rules greatest players winning the prestigious Brownlow medal in 1991 (Player of the Year).

He had the distinction of playing for Ireland and Australia in the International Rules series and in more recent times he was a key part of the Australian management set-up.  One of his last public engagements was to throw in the ball in Melbourne at last year’s Ireland v Australia test.  During one of Australia’s visits to Ireland, Jim presented a signed football to the club and it remains a treasured memento.

While Jim’s international fame is due to his prowess as an Aussie Rules star, he never lost touch with his roots and was a regular visitor home.  When on such trips usually around Christmas, he always called to the club.

Over the years there were speculations that he might return to play for the Dublin senior football team.  Those notions were probably never really on but on 2 January 1994 he did play his only game for the Dublin senior team when he lined out against the Blue Stars in the annual Exhibition games at Páirc Uí Mhurchú.

Jim led a very successful life off the field and his work with his Reach Charity is among is legacies.  He will be remembered for his physical presence, his unquenchable determination and fierce competitiveness.  He has a deserved reputation as a great Irishman and Australian and Ballyboden St Endas is proud to call him one of their own.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.