It is with a profound sense of sadness and a deep loss that Railway Union Cricket Club would like to celebrate the life of our beloved club stalwart and true gentleman, Eddie Tillain. Fondly nicknamed "Satchmo" by many within the grounds for his beautiful, singing voice and infectious charisma, Eddie was the very heart and soul of the pavilion at Park Avenue. Whenever he stepped into the clubhouse, he brought a glass-half-full energy that united every generation of the club.

A Dedicated Career and Unmatched Support

Eddie's cricket journey was firmly woven into the fabric of Railway Union. During the 1970s and 1980s, he was a regular fixture in Railway Union. He played with absolute grit on the field and an undeniable warmth off it. Beyond his runs and overs, Eddie was a fierce advocate for his teammates and the local game.

When the boots were hung up, his support for the club never wavered. Eddie was a generous sponsor and champion for Railway Union during difficult eras. Whether backing the cricket teams, or later showing up to cheer on the hockey sections, he remained our most passionate advocate.

The Visionary Behind the Tillain Cup

In the mid-1980s, Eddie noticed a significant gap in Leinster cricket. While senior players enjoyed the thrills of the Alan Murray Cup, junior and second-team players had no such competition. Not one to sit idly by, Eddie approached the Junior Branch Committee of the Leinster Cricket Union and personally offered to provide a brand new trophy to kickstart a tournament dedicated entirely to second elevens.

Thus, in 1987, the Tillain Cup was born. In a poetic piece of club history, Eddie played on the Railway Union 2nd XI that stormed to victory to lift the inaugural trophy in its very first season. Over the decades, his brainchild has evolved into one of the most competitive and highly anticipated fixtures in the Cricket Leinster calendar.

An Enduring Legacy at Park Avenue

Though Eddie has played his final innings, his presence will forever be felt in Sandymount. Honouring his monumental impact on our community, the final of the Tillain Cup will continue to be hosted at our home grounds on Park Avenue every summer. Year after year, as the final is played, we will remember the character, the voice, and the vision of Eddie Tillain.

We extend our deepest condolences to his loving wife Phyllis, his daughter Michele, his grandsons, and his vast network of friends across the Irish cricket community.

Rest in Peace, Eddie. Gone, but never forgotten in Park Avenue.