Career
He was part of the great Shamrock Rovers teams of the 1950s in a side, popularly known as Coad"s Colts, that enjoyed many memorable days during that decade. A former schoolboy and youth international he joined Shamrock Rovers F.C. in 1952 and stayed for nearly a decade at Glenmalure Park. He captained his country in the first ever B international in October 1957.
Shay represented the League of Ireland XI nine times between 1955 and 1959.
Shared a benefit game with Ronnie Nolan in May 1961. In September 1961 he signed for Dundalk F.C. and also had further spells at Jacobs F.C. and as player-manager at Street Patrick"s Athletic F.C. between 1963 and 1965.
On 20 December 1973, Liam Tuohy resigned as Rovers manager. Shay, who had been in the position of technical advisor to the club, was appointed manager with Dougie Wood but resigned two days later.