The O’Dwyers and Newtown Blues GAA clubs have honoured the memory of former Dublin goalkeeper Keith Gorman, who passed away last Saturday, reports Dublin Live.
Fondly known by many as ‘Beezer’, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year, a blow he met with resilience, undergoing rigorous medical treatment. Gorman represented Dublin at under-21 level for two seasons and was part of the senior squad that claimed the O’Byrne Cup title in 1999 under Tommy Carr.
This came shortly after the retirement of John O’Leary, one of Dublin’s most iconic goalkeepers and a fellow O’Dwyers man. Davy Byrne remained the first-choice keeper until 2001, when Stephen Cluxton rose to prominence. A benefit match was held for Gorman in Parnell Park last October, where he took to the pitch alongside several Dublin greats. Despite not collecting major trophies during a challenging era for Dublin football, he reflected fondly on that O’Byrne Cup victory, reports Dublin Live.
“That success was one of the highlights for me,” he said. “I cherish that O’Byrne Cup medal. That year, Dublin also reached the National League final. I was on the panel. Unfortunately, we lost the final to Cork. It was played in Páirc Uí Chaoimh,” reports Dublin Live.
He also spoke of how much he was influenced by O’Leary, who captained Dublin to All-Ireland glory in 1995. “John O’Leary was with O’Dwyer’s, and he had a huge impact on me,” he explained. “I idolised him. He was playing for Dublin, winning All-Irelands. I loved going to watch him playing for Dublin. He was one of the greatest goalkeepers of all.
“He brought goalkeeping to a very high level, and Stephen (Cluxton) carried it on again. It’s all about improving and developing all the time. John has been a massive help to me over the years with my goalkeeping. But it’s not only that. He has been so kind to me in recent times in particular. I can ring him at any time. His phone is always open to me,” reports Dublin Live.
“He always makes time for a chat, or go for a coffee,” he told independent.ie. Gorman, aged 46, had only recently become a father when his illness struck. He and his wife Karen welcomed their daughter, Kaelan, in March of the previous year,” reports Dublin Live.
In a candid interview in August 2024, he revealed he had lost 30kg and was experiencing back pain, which he initially believed was due to years of football, before receiving the “devastating” diagnosis. His outlook remained hopeful after being told the illness was treatable, especially having recently lost his uncle to the same disease.
“When the doctor said yes, I made my mind up, there and then, that I would fight this,” he said. “No one knows how they’d react to being given such a diagnosis. It’s a fight or flight situation and I’m determined to fight. I have to, for the sake of my two beautiful girls. They’re my whole life,” reports Dublin Live.
Having settled in Drogheda with Karen, he joined Newtown Blues GAA club, which praised the bravery and dignity with which he battled his illness. “We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of our dear friend and clubman, Keith ‘Beezer’ Gorman,” read a statement on the club’s Facebook page.
“Keith was a Gael through and through – a proud husband to Karen, a devoted father to Kaelan, and above all, a truly genuine person who lit up every room he walked into. From the moment he joined our Blues family, Keith’s easy smile, good humour and kind nature made him a friend to so many,” reports Dublin Live.
“He embraced our club and community with open arms, and in turn, we were lucky to call him one of our own. Keith faced his illness with incredible courage, strength, and dignity. His passing leaves a huge void in the lives of everyone who knew him, but his spirit, warmth, and the memories he leaves behind will live long in our hearts,” reports Dublin Live.
“On behalf of everyone at Newtown Blues, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Karen, Kaelan, and all of Keith’s family and friends at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” reports Dublin Live.
O’Dwyer’s described him as “an absolute gentleman and a true GAA legend”, noting he “will always be fondly remembered in our club”. His funeral Mass will take place this afternoon in Drogheda, where he will be laid to rest.
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