His widow, Madge, was joined by her son Pat, daughter Sharon Reid and her grandson, Dean Reid, in the Ballyclare Comrades boardroom, where they were met by senior office-bearers.

Pat (Sen.) had served for thirteen years as a faithful and dedicated kit-man under several managers, first of all in the Irish League B Division, and later in the Irish League after the Comrades had been elevated to senior status. During that time perfection was his aim, and he regarded it a privilege to have met so many of the household names in football circles in Northern Ireland.

In order to perpetuate his name locally, the McCourt family presented Ballyclare Comrades Football Club with the Pat McCourt Memorial Shield, to be awarded annually to the Comrades Reserves Player of the Year.

Receiving the shield on behalf of the club, chairman Trevor McCann paid tribute to Pat's time with the Comrades. "Pat's introduction to Dixon Park was by Dennis McKenzie who had taken over the reins in the 1979-80 season, following a distinguished playing career with the club, " stated Trevor.

"Prior to that Pat had been involved as kit-man with Ballyeaston Young Men, and Dennis persuaded him to transfer to Dixon Park. Pat brought professionalism to the changing room, where he catered for every need of the players. He was greatly respected by the players who appreciated his attention to detail, and by officials of the club.

"Pat set standards that were unequalled by even the top teams in the Irish League; indeed it was not uncommon for visiting kit-men from top clubs to come to Pat on match day to borrow tieings, laces etc. He set standards that were difficult to emulate, and his passing last summer was greatly mourned by all associated with Ballyclare Comrades Football Club.

"Pat took a special interest in the development of young talent, especially locals, so it is most appropriate to have this trophy directed towards the Reserve XI," ended Trevor.

Replying on behalf of the family Pat (Junior) said that football was his father's main interest, and he regarded it as a great personal honour to have been asked to join the Ballyclare Comrades backroom staff. Pat recalled the happy memories he himself had when playing for the club along with other locals including Tom Todd and the current Comrades manager Jamesie Kirk.

He said that his Dad had been particularly delighted to have been involved in several Steel & Sons Cup finals with the Comrades, some of which brought joy, but others heartbreak.