Dublin born Ken King’s rugby career both on and off the playing field was certainly versatile and exciting. A raconteur par excellence and a most popular and engaging individual the sport of rugby was enriched by his participation. Educated at Presentation College Bray he played his club rugby with Sunday’s Well (1966), Lansdowne (1962), Monkstown (1954), St Mary’s College (1969) and Greystones (1955). Amongst his many achievements undoubtedly was as a member of the first Irish Provincial team to defeat an international touring team. That historic occasion took place on the 25th January 1967 at Musgrave Park when Munster defeated Australia by 11 points to 8 points. The Munster side was captained by Noel Murphy with Ken (Sunday’s Well) playing as hooker. Ken was capped on 5 occasions for Munster. He also played for a Rest of Ireland XV and an Irish Final Trial.
Having joined Greystones in 1955 his rugby journey turned full circle when he returned to the club in 1972. He would become synonymous with Greystones and had the distinction as serving as club Captain (2 seasons 1971/1973) and club President (1992/1993). His other roles in the club were as coach and Club Chairperson (1973/1974).
His managerial talents were soon recognised by Leinster Rugby as they commenced their journey in the era of professional rugby. He served as Chair of the Leinster Under 20’s Selectors and Leinster Senior Selectors and as Leinster Rugby Manager for five seasons prior to his retirement from the position in 2004. He officiated at over 100 Leinster fixtures in his capacity as Manager and did that in an effective and courteous manner which was respected by players, coaches, backroom staff, officials and media. His passing in August 2022 was much mourned by all involved in Leinster Rugby for he enriched the lives of many with his warmth and humorous company and represented all the core values of the sport of rugby.
I knew Ken very well in greystones and had some great times with him, may he rest in peace. My deepest sympathies to all his family.
Thanks for your friendship and memories Ken.
RIP Ken. Such a great rugby man. Ken was team manager at Leinster in the early days of professional rugby at the Province. I was the Head Coach for a while alongside Ken. He was a wonderful guy to work alongside and his rugby intellect and incredible sense of humour made him an extremely popular and effective manager. The lads loved him and all who worked with him will remember him fondly. Thanks for the wonderful memories Ken.
I met Ken one day by chance and he asked me if my photo with the Leinster team that played the All Blacks had pride of place somewhere in my house (he had been a Leinster selector at the time). I replied that I didn’t even know that there was such a photo. 2 weeks later a van came to the door and delivered me a package. In it were 2 photos of the team and a note asking me to give one of them to Pete Purcell. To me that was typical of Ken. No thanks was expected – he just did it for me without even asking. He was a lovely guy and great company. RIP!
I first met Ken as a 17 year old joining Greystones when Ken was captain. He always had kind and encouraging comments and was a fabulous recontour and great at pre-match pep talks. He never changed throughout the years, always with the smile and friendly comments. A great player. captain, president, manager and a fabulous human being.