Sadness in Mayo at death of Galway hurling legend Michael Coleman

A veil of sadness and grief descended on the GAA fraternity countrywide with the news of the death of Galway hurling legend, Michael Coleman. Michael succumbed to injuries received on Friday evening while clearing up damages caused by the recent storm near his home at Crumlin, Ballyglunin, Abbeyknockmoy, just a few miles from Tuam.

Michael (pictured), who was in his early 60s, was midfielder on the Galway team that defeated Tipperary in the 1988 All Ireland Final. He was captain of the Galway team that defeated Tipperary in the 1996 League Final and was honoured with three All Stars during those special years for the Abbeyknockmoy man.

He also won three Railway Cup medals and captained Connacht to a thrilling one point win over Leinster in 1994. He played a central role in helping Abbeyknockmoy to win their only Galway senior title in 1988.

Michael was an iconic player who commanded huge respect all over the country. He was part of a phenomenal Galway team, described by legendary hurling journalist, Raymond Smith, as one of the ‘Top 10’ hurling sides in GAA history.

Quiet demeanour

Former Mayo footballer, Tommy Grogan from Ballyhaunis, recalled his time with Michael in St Jarlath’s, Tuam. “As a schoolmate of Michael in St Jarlath’s college I feel that being in a football- mad environment probably delayed his development as a hurler but when he found his feet he was the best midfielder in Ireland. His quiet demeanour off the field hid the fierce competitor he was on the field of play. Michael really was one of life’s true gentlemen.”

Mayo hurling manager, Ray Larkin, expressed the condolences of the Mayo GAA community to the Coleman family and friends in Galway. “Michael was a true legend of hurling. He was a gentle giant with no airs or graces. He was always helpful to Tooreen and Ballyhaunis when it came to arranging challenge games with Abbeyknockmoy. Michael was a lovely gentleman and this is such a tragedy for his family, the Abbeyknockmoy community and the Galway hurling fraternity.”

The hearts of all go out to his wife Mary, daughter Sinead and son Dara, his extended family, Abbeyknockmoy Hurling club and community and legion of friends at this incredibly sad time. Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.