Harry Cavan

Harry Cavan C.B.E., O.B.E. (1915-2000) (Henry Hartrick Cavan) was Senior Vice-President of FIFA from 1980 to 1990, and president of the Irish Football Association from 1958 to 1994. Its Harry Cavan Youth Cup is named for him.

On his death FIFA said "One of football’s most senior and long-serving statesmen has passed away. FIFA mourns the death of Harry H. Cavan of Northern Ireland, who died on Sunday, 16 January. In expressing its condolences to Mr. Cavan’s family and to the Irish Football Association, FIFA also wishes to reiterate its deep appreciation of his contributions to football and FIFA during a distinguished career.

"Harry H. Cavan served on a variety of FIFA committees, including the Organising Committees for all World Cups from 1970 to 1986. He also chaired the Technical Committee, the Development Programmes Committee, the World Youth Tournament Committee, the Medical Committee and the Referees’ Committee. However, Mr. Cavan will best be remembered for his distinguished role in representing the British associations as a Vice-President of the FIFA Executive Committee from 1960 to 1990. He was made an Honorary Vice-President of FIFA in 1990." It fell to him to announce in 1988 the results of the vote of FIFA's Executive Committee: "It was a card vote, a secret vote. It resulted as follows: Brazil two, Morocco seven, the United States 10. I declare on behalf of FIFA that the host country for the 1994 World Cup will be the United States of America."

In 1977 the inaugural staging of the FIFA World Youth Championship was held in Tunisia from June 27 to July 10, when Harry Cavan chaired the Tournament Committee. He had spearheaded the creation of the World Youth Championship.

Long-time Secretary of Ards F.C., he held the title of its President from 1982 to 2000.#

Harry leaves three daughters, 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.