SADNESS

Glenavon is saddened to learn of the passing of its former groundsman and lifelong supporter, George Swift.

George was the eldest son of former director George Swift. George senior served on the Board from May 1983 until his death in November 2003.

In 1977 George junior was a member of the group of dedicated supporters who made the overland trip to Holland to watch Glenavon’s historic U.E.F.A. Cup first round second leg tie against P.S.V. Eindhoven.

In the late 1980s he assisted kitman Jackie Murray and in 1988 travelled to Denmark for the Cup Winners’ Cup first round second leg clash with AGF Aarhus.

George junior was taught how to maintain and care for pitches by his father, George senior, the proprietor of Swift Landscapes. During the 1980s and 1990s the two George Swifts and George junior’s younger brother, Nigel, often assisted with the upkeep of Mourneview Park. In the 2000s George junior became Glenavon’s groundsman. He filled the role for more than a decade.

During the 1980s and 1990s George senior, George junior and Nigel were all members of the Triangle Supporters’ Club.

George junior played for Hill Street Boys’ Club. In the early 2000s he became its assistant-manager. During these years Hill Street won a plethora of trophies, including the Alexander Cup. The club had lost seven finals in 14 years until it defeated Drumcrew Celtic in the 2003 decider.

George junior served on the Glenavon FC board of directors between 2007 and 2012.

George junior’s mother, Maureen, has helped to provide matchday hospitality in the Glenavon boardroom for decades. She is a much-loved volunteer.

The Swifts have made an enormous contribution to football in Lurgan.

Sincere condolences are extended to Maureen and the entire family circle.

Be Just and Fear Not.