Former Laois GAA star blows final whistle on teaching and gets standing ovation

Former Laois GAA player is set to start a new chapter in life after retiring from teaching.

Pat Roe, who starred for Laois between the 1980s and 90s, retired from St Fergal's College Rathdowney where he was a PE and English teacher for more than three decades.

The school paid tribute

"October 2nd 2023, marked a bitter sweet day in St. Fergal’s College as we bid farewell to Mr. Pat Roe as he retires after 31 years teaching in our school.

"Following a guard of honour from the entire school community, Mr Roe addressed staff and students as he recalled coming to St. Fergal’s 31 years ago for one month as a substitute teacher! This month turned into a year and as they say, the rest is history!

Reminiscing on his time in St. Fergal’s, Pat spoke of the happy memories he will have as he leaves and thanked all staff and students for making his time here memorable.

Principal, Gerry Quinn spoke of Pat’s dedication to the job throughout his time here, the positive influence he had on the school and how much he would be missed by staff and students alike.

"Here in St Fergal’s, we will miss Pat’s humour and collegiality, as well as his ‘audible’ voice from his PE classes in the hall and his English classes in Room 19.

"However, we wish Pat, his wife, Mags and daughter, Katie-Linh all the best in his retirement and we hope he enjoys the next chapter of his life. Don’t be a stranger Pat," said the school.

The tribute concluded: "Go n-éirí an t-ádh leat sa todchaí!" MORE BELOW POST.

A part from playing for Laois, with whom he won an U21 Leinster title, Roe also played club football for Portlaoise and The Heath with whom he won a senior Laois Championship. he picked up a Laois Senior Hurling Championship medal with his hurling club, Clonad.

He managed at senior intercounty level with Carlow, Wexford and Offaly at for Laois at U21 level.