'Heartbreaking' - Tributes to GAA star (18) killed in crash weeks after death of dad
Órán McConville died after being involved in a road traffic collision near Hilltown, Co Down on Saturday
Tributes are being paid this week to a young GAA star who was killed in a tragic road crash in Co Down on Saturday.
Talented Gaelic footballer Órán McConville was a passenger in a car involved in a crash near Hilltown, Co Down, on Saturday. Another teenager was arrested following the single-vehicle collision.
Órán passed away just six week after the death of his own father Paddy. His sister Rachael also died young 16 years ago. He was the "dearly loved son of Amanda and the late Paddy and devoted brother of Rachael (deceased) and Shéa."
His death notice says he will be "sadly missed by his sorrowing mum, brother Shéa, Grandmother Bridie McDonald, Grandfather Paddy Francis McConville, uncles, aunts, cousins and the entire family circle and friends."
His GAA club, Drumgath GAC, were among the first to pay tribute to their beloved teammate. A statement read: "It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we, the committee and members of Drumgath GAC, share the devastating news of the untimely passing of Órán McConville.
"Órán was so much more than a young man - he was a bright light in our community. Kind, gentle, full of humour, and always up for a chat, Órán had that rare ability to make everyone feel at ease in his company. He had time for people, young and old, and brought joy to those lucky enough to have known him. Whether it was on the football pitch or in the heart of the community, Órán carried himself with warmth, respect, and quiet charm.
"Órán’s contribution to Drumgath GAC on the field was nothing short of outstanding. A talented and dedicated footballer, he wore the jersey with immense pride. From the moment he could walk, Órán was part of our club - first as a supporter, watching his older siblings, Rachael and Shéa, represent Drumgath and later as a player in his own right.
"Órán also proudly played schools’ football with St. Mark’s, where he was equally respected for his commitment, sportsmanship, and team spirit. Órán was a teammate everyone could count on- his legacy on the pitch will never be forgotten.
"Órán’s sudden death has left our entire club and wider community in deep shock and sorrow. A young man full of promise, kindness, and spirit, Órán had so much life ahead of him. He was a cherished friend to many, a teammate, and a beloved son and brother.
"This tragedy is made all the more poignant as it comes just six weeks after the passing of his father, Paddy, and 16 years after the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Rachael. Our hearts go out to his loving mother, Amanda, and his devoted brother, Shéa - for any family to endure such loss is beyond comprehension. We offer them our full support, prayers, and strength in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
"As a club and a community, we share in Amanda and Shéa’s heartbreak and will offer them our deepest care and support throughout this unimaginable time.
"To Órán- thank you for the laughter, the smiles, and the memories. You will never be forgotten. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal."
Other friends and family paid their own tributes and expressed condolences to Órán's mother. One said: "Deepest sympathy to the family, thinking of Amanda and Shea, Oran was one of a kind fells. He lit up the bar and if there was a house party he was the shining light or the sensible one. One of a kind."
Another shared the Gaelic footballer's prayer, the same on read out at the funeral of Mick O'Dwyer, the legendary footballer and manager, last weekend.
It reads: Give me o Lord a Footballers skill
With strength of arm and speed of limb
Unerring eye for the flying ball
And courage to match them whatever befall
May my aim be steady - my Kick be true
My actions brave - my misses few
And no matter what way the game may go
May I part in friendship with every foe
When the final whistle for me is blown
And I stand at last at Gods Judgement Throne
May the great Referee say when he calls my name ..
"You played like a man-You played the game"
Funeral Details
Órán’s remains will be reposing at his late home; 60 Lurgancahone Road, Rathfriland. Those wishing to pay their respects can do so from 6pm - 9pm this evening (Sunday) and 1pm - 8pm on Monday and Tuesday. Removal on Wednesday at 1.30pm for 2pm Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Drumgath. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
House Private on Wednesday morning please.