Mayo community stunned by death of sports personality

THE community of Erris, as well as the county at large, has been stunned by news of the death of Eric O'Reilly, Tallagh, Belmullet.  

Aged 42, the deceased was one of the county's best known sporting personalities through his involvement as a coach and administrator with Iorras Aontaithe FC, a club in which his heart truly rested.

During his playing days, he was one of soccer's most prolific goalscorers and had the distinction of winning the Mayo League's Golden Boot Award for his scoring exploits as well as representing for his county at inter-league on many occasions.

He was also manager of the Iorras side which reached the semi-final of the FAI Junior Cup a number of years ago and was closely associated with the club's squad that lifted the FAI Youth (Under-18) Cup in 2004.

In more recent years, his outstanding work for the Belmullet club won him a National Volunteer of the Year Award, an accolade of which he was so proud.

He held the post of the club's youth secretary this year and coached the Iorras Aontaithe Under 14 squad.

When contacted by The Connaught Telegraph, Tom Reilly, the club's public relations officer, extended his deepest sympathy to the O'Reilly family on their tremendous loss.

He stated: 'Eric's passing leaves a huge void that will never be filled. He was an inspirational figure within our club and was involved every step of the way in the club's development on and off the field of play. He got behind every positive idea that was raised at committee level.'

Local Councillor Gerry Coyle joined in the tributes to the deceased and said his prayers were with the bereaved family.

'Everybody knew Eric because of his work as a bread salesman with O'Donoghue's Bakery in Belmullet as well as his long association with Iorras Aontaithe.

'He had a heart of gold and helped so many young players pursue their football dreams. We are all devastated by the news,' said Councillor Coyle.

As a mark of respect, all of the club's fixtures over the coming days have been postponed