Willie Kemp
Willie Kemp
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Willie Kemp was a renowned Northern Irish footballer who played as a goalkeeper for several clubs, including Glenavon and Linfield.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 7, 1948, Willie Kemp passed away on August 5, 2013, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the world of football.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Northern Irish
Profession: Footballer (Goalkeeper)
Early Life and Background
Willie Kemp was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, during a tumultuous period in the country's history. Growing up amidst sectarian tensions and violence, Kemp's early life was marked by hardship and resilience. Despite these challenges, he found solace in football, which became an integral part of his identity.
Kemp's introduction to football came at a young age, with his father encouraging him to play for local clubs. He quickly developed a passion for the sport, honing his skills as a goalkeeper through dedication and perseverance.
Major Accomplishments
During his illustrious career, Willie Kemp achieved numerous accolades that cemented his status as one of Northern Ireland's greatest goalkeepers. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Representing Northern Ireland: Kemp earned 19 caps for the Northern Ireland national team, demonstrating his exceptional skills on the international stage.
Domestic Success: He won several domestic titles with Glenavon and Linfield, including the Irish League Championship and the Irish Cup.
* Individual Awards: Kemp received numerous individual accolades, including being named to the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Team of the Year.
Notable Works or Actions
While Kemp's football career was undoubtedly his most notable achievement, he also made significant contributions off the pitch. One such example is his involvement in various charity initiatives, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for local causes.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Kemp was known for his exceptional leadership skills, which were evident in both his on-field performances and his role as a team captain.
Impact and Legacy
Willie Kemp's impact on the world of football extends far beyond his impressive career statistics. He inspired generations of Northern Irish players with his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the sport.
Kemp's legacy can be seen in the countless young players he mentored throughout his career, many of whom went on to achieve great success themselves. His influence also extends to the broader community, as he used his platform to promote social change and raise awareness for important causes.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Willie Kemp's quotes and opinions are still widely sought after today due to his unique blend of footballing expertise and insight into the sport. His experiences on and off the pitch provide a valuable perspective, offering guidance and inspiration to players, coaches, and fans alike.
Kemp's legacy as a trailblazer for Northern Irish football is a testament to his enduring impact on the sport. As a player, captain, and community leader, he left an indelible mark that continues to inspire and motivate future generations of players and fans.
Quotes by Willie Kemp

I came out and my shot was falling. I'm looking forward to coming up here and playing for the University of Memphis. It's going to be great for me to come up here and play.

I played AAU basketball with Jeremy and Jay, so I know they're good players. I think it's going to be a good game because Jeremy and Jay are good players and they have good guards.

I'm just glad someone from West Tennessee won a state title this year. Liberty's a great team. They played together and pulled it out.

I knew it could go either way. It's very nice to win this, but I'd rather be out there playing for a state championship.

That's probably my first dunk of the year. I was just feeling good and decided to go for it.

We didn't come out and play as hard as they did early. (Stewart County) had a reason to be here. Everybody plays their best game against us, so we've always got to play our best game.

We just didn't come out playing as hard as we should have. We finally got together and kicked it another gear. Coach expects the best out of us. We know that.


