GAA community mourn the loss of Aaron Devlin

Tributes have begun to pour in in the wake of the tragic death of former Derry footballer Aaron Devlin.

The 23-year-old was admitted to hospital after playing 40 minutes for his Ballinderry club, before coming off citing tiredness as the issue.

He was admitted to hospital when his condition worsened and was placed in intensive care after it was discovered he had contracted meningitis.

In a statement, the Derry County Board said: "The Derry GAA community is greatly saddened to learn of the untimely death of Aaron Devlin. It is difficult to comprehend the devastation that the Devlin family and the wider community of Ballinderry must be feeling at this time.

"This tragedy will be sorely felt throughout the Derry GAA family, and on behalf of all our players, officials and members, at home and abroad, we wish to extend our heartfelt sympathy to Aaron’s mother Carmel, father Eugene, sister Anna, and brothers Ronan and Coilin.

“We also offer all our condolences to the members of Aaron’s club, Ballinderry Shamrocks, his local community, his team-mates, and his many friends and colleagues. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”

The Devlin family also broke their silence and issued a touching statement: “Following a characteristically hard-fought battle with a sudden illness, our son, brother and friend Aaron has left us. This has been an unimaginably tough and dark time for us - and will continue to be.

“The actions, words, prayers, kindness, and support from so many people has genuinely touched us. We may never be able to thank everyone for it, but please know that it has helped us realise just what an impact he made on this world in just 23 years. We have gained so much strength and pride from it.

“We now hope that the many memories Aaron has given us will help us through the challenge that we must now face together.”

The GAA added to those giving their condolences to the family saying: “Aaron’s death is an unimaginable loss for both his family and his community. Ulster GAA offers them and all Aaron’s many teammates our support at this difficult time and express our sincere sympathy on their loss.

The final whistle has blown for you @Aaron_Devlin but by God you had some game. Rest in Peace Aaron.

— Adrian McGuckin (@bigaidso14) July 30, 2015

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