News & Views - The 'Fighting Irish'

The ‘fighting Irish’

Distant cousins meet outside Dublin’s historic Joycian Pub, DAVY BYRNES. Kelly brothers Robbie and Brian of Howth meet brothers Don and Mike Condit of Chicago.


Brothers Don and Mike with their wives Marleen and Suzan were part of the 35000 visitors from the States, who travelled here for the traditional Notre Dame/Navy football game. Both the Condit’s have professional practices in Chicago. Mick in law and Don as an orthopedic surgeon specialising in hand, wrist and elbow technology. All four are avid supporters of NORTE DAME, the fabled “FIGHTING IRISH”, who as we know had a fantastic but hard won victory over NAVY.




In the early days Notre Dame used Irish Terriers as their mascot. The University of Notre Dame was founded by a 28-year-old French priest, Rev. Edward Sorin, C.S.C. in 1842. He was a very determined man because when the university’s main building was damaged by fire in 1879 he is quoted as saying "I came here as a young man and dreamed of building a great university in honour of Our Lady, but I built it too small, and she had to burn it to the ground to make the point. So, tomorrow, as soon as the bricks cool, we will rebuild it, bigger and better than ever."



There is an interesting Kelly connection to this historic University’s football team - it’s coach. Their 51 year old Massachusetts born Brian Kelly is very proud of his Irish roots and during his visit here was anxious to slip off for a few pints with his relations. He was not saying where or when - we will try to find out.


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