Tyrone GAA are in mourning today following the death of hurler Damian Casey.
The 29-year-old died in an accident in a pool in Spain.
The Dungannon man who had been with the Red Hand’s since 2012, was regarded by many as the greatest hurler the county has ever produced.
Casey helped Tyrone win this season’s Nickey Rackard Cup scoring 12 points in their 1-21 to 0-19 win over Roscommon in the final in Croke Park.
In a statement released on Friday night, Tyrone GAA said: “Tonight Tyrone Is Lonely
“Heartbreak and grief can come in many forms but are especially cruel when brought about by the sudden death of someone young, talented, outgoing and in the prime of life.
“Accordingly, Gaelic Tyrone is totally shaken by the news of the tragic death of Damian Casey, a supreme hurler just now at the peak of his powers.
“This breaking news is beyond belief,” a shocked Tyrone County Chair Michael Kerr commented.
“Someone who brought honour, delight and simple, straightforward gladness to our whole County, and far beyond, is gone and it’s so hard to take in.”
“There are very difficult days ahead for Sean, Susan, Louise and Catherine, for Damian’s wider family circle and many friends and associates, for his team-mates and for the Gaels of Dungannon and Tyrone.”
“Our deepest sympathy goes to them, and our focus must now be on providing the support and comfort that will be so badly needed.”
“Damian Casey was a special gift to Tyrone and to hurling. We were the richer for his presence and are the poorer for his passing.
You departed in the bloom of youth, may your soul be granted the Light of Heaven.”
