LAST UPDATE | 17 May 2019
DUBLIN GAA LEGEND Anton O’Toole has passed away at the age of 68.
The Templeogue Synge Street clubman won four All-Ireland medals under Kevin Heffernan, during a golden period for the county between 1974 and 1983.
Known as ‘The Blue Panther’, O’Toole, later went on to manage his club.
A half forward, O’Toole won three All Stars in a glittering career in the blue of Dublin.
Dublin county board secretary John Costello paid tribute to the All-Ireland winner.
“Anton O’Toole was a footballing giant and a gentleman both on and off the field of play.
“The four-time All-Ireland SFC winner was a role model for generation after generation of Dublin footballer.
“The Synge Street legend is held in the highest of esteem by the current Dublin management and players, as he has been since he retired from the inter-county game in 1984.
Moments like this happen too rarely. You couldn’t write it..
— Brian Fenton (@BrianFenton08) May 17, 2019
RIP Anton
💙 https://t.co/pQCRAvLXhd
“Anton was a brilliant forward who combined bravery, ball-winning ability, team ethic, style and scoring return to grace the playing fields of the country.
“He initially played for the Dublin juniors, reaching an All-Ireland final in 1971, before making his senior NFL debut in December 1972 against Longford.
“His championship debut came in the summer of 1974 against Wexford, scoring two points.
“It was the start of an illustrious senior career that was to see him win four Celtic Crosses, having played in seven finals, as well as being honoured as an All-Star in 1975, 1976 and 1977.
Had the joy of watching him play and admired so much how he kicked points for fun in his own special way. That joy turned to fun and enjoyment as he got the small white ball around the golf course again in his own special way. He was not Tiger but the Blue Panther. Legend 🧦💙🏌️♂️
— Paul Clarke (@ClarkePaul1995) May 17, 2019
“Anton, or the Blue Panther as he is affectionately known by many supporters, won eight Leinster SFC medals – six in-a-row from 1974 to ’79 as well as in 1983 and ’84.
“In 1983 Anton was one of the main guiding lights that inspired Kevin Heffernan’s young team to All-Ireland glory.
“On behalf of Dublin GAA I would like to offer our sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís.”
