Mayo mourns passing of soccer legend Sean McLoughlin

THE death has occurred of Sean McLoughlin, New Road, Demesne, Westport, a legendary figure in Mayo soccer circles.

He will be remembered as one of life's true gentlemen who gave unselfishly of his time and talent to sport.

In his youth Sean was one of the best players ever to wear the colours of Westport United and starred in many of the club's great successes over the years.

A legendary figure within the sport, he won a number of Irish international caps at amateur level and was a former officer of the Mayo Youths and Schoolboys/Girls League. He served as manager of the Mayo Youths (Under 18) squad for many years, leading the county to a national inter-league final back in the 1980s as well as winning several provincial titles.

Sean had a wonderful knowledge of football and was always willing to share his wisdom with players and fellow coaches. Most of all, he was a thorough gentleman and a great family man who was held in high esteem by everyone who knew him.

Predeceased by his wife Gerri, he will be sadly missed by his loving family, daughter Niamh, sons Paul, Iain, Alan and Raymond, sisters Mairin, Eithne and Patricia, brother Michael, grandchildren Rachel, Katie, Charlie, Caolan, Sean and Theo, daughters-in-law Ayleen and Michelle, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Sean's funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary's Church, Westport, on Thursday at 2 p.m., followed by burial in Aughavale Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.