Tom Ginty Handball Legend- New York & Kilmactigue

By Padraig Maye

On February 2nd 1967 a great handball career ended. Tom Ginty passed to his eternal reward while playing the game he loved so well. Yes, he died in the handball court at the tender age of 56.

Tom was born in Kilmactigue, Aclare, Co. Sligo and left for New York at 18 years of age. There he worked as a subway motorman. He left behind 7 brothers and 6 sisters but later, all but two also emigrated to America. Bernie and Willie remained in Ireland. 

While growing up in Kilmactigue, his favourite pastime was playing handball in the local alley and already he had acquired a large reputation because of his skill. No wonder he once again took up the game in New York.