Bernie Gibbs

Bernard "Bernie" Gibbs (1898–c.1965) was an Irish hurler who played as a left corner-forward for the Galway senior team.^[1]

Gibbs made his first appearance for the team during the 1923 championship and was a regular member of the team until his emigration prior to the start of the 1925 championship. During that time he won one All-Ireland medal. Gibbs was an All-Ireland runner-up on one occasion.

Gibbs also enjoyed a brief club career with Gort.

Playing career

Club

Gibbs played his club hurling with Gort, however, he enjoyed little success during his brief career.

Inter-county

Gibbs first came to prominence on the inter-county scene with Galway during their first breakthrough in the 1920s. In 1923 he was a key member of the team as Galway qualified for their first All-Ireland final in thirty-six years. After beating reigning champions Kilkenny at the penultimate stage, Galway now faced Limerick who were bidding for a third All-Ireland title in seven years. A high-scoring game developed, however, at half-time the sides were level. A hat-trick of goals by Leonard McGrath and powerful displays by Mick Gill and Mick Derivan helped Galway to a 7-3 to 4-5 victory. It was a first All-Ireland medal for Gibbs.^[2]

Gibbs played in a second successive All-Ireland decider in 1924 with Dublin providing the opposition. Galway played with the wind in the first-half and led by three points at the break. Two goals by Dublin forward Garrett Howard and a great goalkeeping display by Tommy Daly ensured a 5-3 to 2-6 defeat for Galway.^[3]

International

In 1924 Gibbs was honoured when he was chosen on the Ireland hurling team for the Tailteann Games competition.

References