Liam Clifford

Liam Clifford's Biography

William Peter “Liam” Clifford, born 27 June 1876 and died 24 February 1949, was a prominent Irish sports administrator, politician, and dairy expert. Renowned for his administrative prowess, invaluable contributions to the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), and dedicated public service in the farming sector, Clifford’s influential career imprinted a lasting legacy.

Liam, as he was popularly known, was the ninth president of the GAA serving from 1926 to 1928. During his tenure as president, Clifford made numerous strides within the Association, particularly in promoting Gaelic football, hurling, and handball games. A firm believer in the development of sports facilities, he set out an ambitious plan to earmark at least ten percent of GAA gate receipts specifically for ground development. This innovative strategy resulted in the emergence of sports facilities spread throughout the country, even in small villages and towns.

Clifford’s commitment to ground development led to him being hailed as “the great apostle of grounds development”. He has been recognized posthumously as the first GAA president to encourage the various County Committees to purchase and develop grounds exclusive for Gaelic games. Sports commentator, Eamonn Sweeney, lauded Clifford’s groundbreaking initiative, stating, “in the implementation of Clifford’s grounds programme, the GAA was unrivalled in its ability to provide grounds and facilities in the smallest of villages and towns.”

Besides his administrative roles within the GAA, Clifford was also deeply tied to the dairy cooperative movement in Limerick and neighbouring Clare. A dairy expert, Clifford spent many years working towards the development of this industry. His efforts culminated in his appointment as the Department of Agriculture’s chief dairy inspector in 1936, thereby making him a central figure in the country’s leading agricultural sector.

In Limerick, Clifford’s high standing and respect translated into his election as chairman of the county board, a position he held for an impressive 20 years. In addition, he served a term as chairman of the Munster Board, further extending his influence in sports administration and gaining the experience that would make him a successful GAA president.

Clifford’s presidency saw significant international engagements for the GAA including the touring of the All-Ireland champions Tipperary hurling team to America. Brendan Fullam, a sports historian, describes the tour vividly: “The Tipperary hurling team – All-Ireland champions of 1925 – boarded the SS Bremen in early May and set forth on a most successful tour of the States.”

William Peter “Liam” Clifford continued to serve the GAA and his nation dutifully until his death in 1949. Today, his achievements and contributions to the growth and development of sports, especially Gaelic games in Ireland, remain a testament to his dedicated work. His love for the dairy sector and relentless pursuits for advancement in farming practices are yet another facet of his character that sets him apart.

Biographies of influential figures like Clifford catalyze the expansion of our understanding about individuals who have shaped historical events, in this case, through sports. Developing this biographical article furthers complies with the freely licensed text under the CC BY 3.0 license, and contributes to the collective research on Gaelic games.