Obituary: Des Allen

The ITF is saddened to learn of the death of Tennis Ireland’s former Chief Executive Des Allen, who passed away on 2 December after a long illness.

Allen was passionate about tennis, providing 20 years of distinguished service to Tennis Ireland before retiring in 2016. His efforts were recognised with an award for Services to the Game of Tennis at the ITF AGM and Conference in Zagreb, Croatia in 2016.

Richard Fahey, the current Chief Executive of Tennis Ireland, paid tribute to Allen.

“It was with regret that I heard of the passing of Des,” he said. “He made a tremendous contribution to our sport, in particular with his work to develop the National Training Centre at Albert College Park. 

“This facility is a great legacy to Des and a tremendous asset for Irish Tennis. We extend our sincere sympathies and prayers to his wife Karen and all of his family and friends."