 His contribution to the game of hurling was first recognised when he was named as the "Hurling Captain of the Forties".In the centenary year of the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1984 Lynch was named on the "Hurling Team of the Century".At the special centenary All-Ireland final in Semple Stadium he received one of the loudest cheers and rounds of applause when all the former All-Ireland winning hurling captains were introduced to the crowd.