The recent death of Pat Sparks at the age of 47 has robbed Terenure College RFC of one of its greatest supporters. Pat was a brilliant Leinster School's fullback, probably the best in the country, in the days before schools' internationals. He played with distinction on the club's senior and second XV for many years, captaining his side to a junior league title and narrowly losing a metropolitan final that same year.
More recently, he was hon secretary of the club and was an indefatigable worker. At the time of his death, he was the public relations officer for the club, a role for which he was eminently suited. He took great pride in his club and in its successes. He was a wonderful ambassador for Terenure, as he welcomed visitors and guests with great sincerity and friendliness. He was incapable of giving or taking offence and he gave much pleasure to all by his happy nature and the warmth of his personality. He delighted in the success of his club in winning promotion to division 1 of the AIL.
His other great sporting love was tennis and he was an active member of Templeogue LTC for over 30 years. He competed on all of the league teams over the years and served on many committees. His clubmates will remember him as a stylish and sporting player - a competitor but also a gentleman.
To his wife, Eileen, whom he adored, his children, Katie and Robbie, of whom he was so proud and to his mother Kay, to whom he was devoted, it is inadequate to offer our sympathy. He was a very special person and will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.