TwoMacs Podcast Ep71 Bert Mohan

Bert Mohan - still whistling after all these years

Some thought Tyrone referee Bert Mohan and Martin Mohan were two different people. 

'They' are indeed one-and-the-same, and in this podcast, Bert explains how he attained the name.. Bert!.. it goes back to the 1970s! 

Thirty years a GAA whistler, that includes taking charge of three senior club finals, he recalls an approach on Scotch Street in Dungannon that started it all off.

That was shortly after he thought he'd hung up the boots, having won an Intermediate championship medal with Eglish.

From the Brantry his early playing days were at the Aghaloo club but they were different times and later his mother felt it safer he make the move. It was a transfer didn't please everyone at Aghaloo!

Bert gives us an insight into the world of the referee, many funny stories included, and shares his thoughts on more recent high-profile controversies. 

He also played and managed the Tyrone Crystal soccer team and Ronan Mac, a fellow employee back in the day, recalls signing the form to join the team. However on reflection, he's sure the Saturday morning games, after a night at the Clubland, might not have passed the alcohol test!

A master glass cutter, Bert toured America on behalf of the company giving demonstrations of the art. 

They remember the conman from Plumbridge, a self-made millionaire apparently, who was going to save the factory in 1980 but vanished after being wined and dined and put up in fine hotels on the company's expense.

Dungannon Co-Op saved the day and it did get another lease of life but eventually faded out of existence in 2010. A sad finish to what was a celebrated local institution and employer.

Bert would encourage younger lads to take up the whistle and recalls the fulfilment of refereeing those big games.

This is a podcast packed with memories and tributes to great local referees. 

He continues to enjoy life with his wife Kate, children and 13 grandchildren who keep him on his toes! 

Bert Mohan a hugely popular referee and character. 

* Big call! TwoMacs producer Oliver is on the hunt for an All Ireland football final ticket for his cousin Sean McAndrew based in Birmingham (with St Brendan's GAA club there).

* Sean's late father, John RIP, (Oliver's uncle) was on the last Mayo team to win the All Ireland in 1951. He later emigrated to England. 

* If anyone...