The GAA community has been plunged into grief this weekend following the sudden passing of a talented player from Lurgan.
31 year-old Michael McConville was a dedicated sports fan and was a member of the Clann Eireann GAC in Lurgan. He was a popular figure who was widely respected within the community.
Mr McConville was a former cup and medal winner at county level and was locally renowned for being devoted to the sport. He also trained and coached juvenile GAA teams, such was the extent of his love for Gaelic Games.
His body was found in the early hours of the morning on the North Circular Road of Lurgan, and while the cause of death is not yet known, it is believed that the police are not treating his death as suspicious.
An official statement from the PSNI reads: “Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of a man aged in his 30’s whose body was found in the North Circular Road area of Lurgan this morning, Friday 01 January. A post mortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death that is not being treated as suspicious at this time.”
Currently, tributes are pouring in for Mr McConville.
Writing on Facebook, the chairman of his local Football club wrote:
"We are all deeply saddened to hear of the death of Michael McConville. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the Clann Eireann GAC community.
In addition, the Sean Tracey's Hurling Club said "Such a sad, sad day today."
Sinn Fein councillor Keith Haughian described the news as "tragic".
Suaimhneas síoraí ar anam uasal Michael McConville. Deepest condolences to his family, friends & to @ClannEireann1. pic.twitter.com/phlscaQIVL
— Armagh GAA (@Armagh_GAA) January 2, 2016
We are saddened at the death of Michael McConville & offer sympathies to his family, friends & @ClannEireann1 club. Suaimhneas síoraí air.
— Wolfe Tone GAC (@WolfeToneGAC) January 2, 2016
Deepest sympathies to all at Clann Eireann at the untimely passing of Michael McConville. Thoughts and prayers to all from Clan na Gael
— Clan na Gael CLG (@clannagael1922) January 2, 2016
Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Michael McConville a member of @ClannEireann1 at this very sad time. #RIP
— Ciaran O'Doherty (@Ciaran20591) January 1, 2016
We are all deeply saddened to hear of the death of Michael McConville. Our thoughts and prayers to his family and @ClannEireann1 #gaafamily
— Sarsfields PRO (@SarsfieldsPRO) January 1, 2016
It is with great sadness that we have heard of the death of @ClannEireann1 senior player Michael McConville. Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam.
— Seán Ó Treasaigh (@SeanTreacys) January 1, 2016
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