ADRIAN TEER: GORDON IRWIN

Gordon Irwin succeeded Jack Balmer as President of Glenavon in March 1995.

Two of Gordon’s sons, Andrew and Ian, served on the Board of Directors.

The Irwin family’s principal company, Bedeck 1951, was Glenavon’s main corporate sponsor from 1993 to 2024.

Gordon worked closely with Adrian for 25 of his 27 years in the Chair. He is uniquely placed to pay tribute:

Adrian was “Mr. Glenavon.” He gave himself almost completely to the task of making the club successful and was the driving force behind everything we have achieved in the last 30 or more years.

Although he was a Director and Chairman, he was first and foremost a fanatical supporter.

After I became President, he and I were never out of contact for more than a couple of days. He kept me fully informed about developments and, occasionally, asked my advice. We rarely had a disagreement.

He was thoroughly professional in everything he did.

At times he had to make difficult decisions. That was not easy. But he managed to approach those situations dispassionately. Yet, there were moments, such as after a great win, when he became quite emotional. He was, at his core, a soft-hearted individual.

He had many responsibilities but never allowed anything to interfere with the team’s preparations for games. Success on the pitch was always his number one priority.

I recall with particular fondness our Irish Cup wins in 1997, 2014 and 2016. I also remember the European trips we enjoyed together. The 1-0 win in Hafnarfjordur in 1995 was the highlight.

He was a unique person and will have a unique place in our club’s history.

I will miss him greatly.

My sincere sympathy to his family and friends.

Gordon.