Dungiven Celtic pay tribute to former player and coach in heartfelt tribute

Dungiven Celtic have paid tribute to former player and coach, Connor O'Connor, following his recent passing.

The County Derry club took to Facebook to post a heartfelt and moving tribute to Connor after the pair had shared some great memories.

They said: “Once again our town is in shock.  

“Over the years, Connor O'Connor contributed so much to the sporting life of our community as a superb footballer and a talented coach.

“Connor was an exceptional goalkeeper. In the mid-nineties he was a member of the 'County Derry' Milk Cup Squad, sharing the goalkeeping duties with Gerard Doherty, who went on to have an illustrious professional career.  That's how good Connor was.

“Connor was our senior keeper when the club won the NI Intermediate League for the first time in 2003.  His performances played a vital part of the success as part of an outstanding team.

“When his playing days were over, Connor completed his coaching badges.  He had a natural ability as a coach; he was popular and perceptive.

“Sport played a large part in Connors's life, and he will be sorely missed.

Connor loved his family circles; he loved his friends, and he had a lot!   He was very proud of his achievements and celebrated other family members' accolades like they were his own.

“We'll remember Connor, smiling, making saves, and as a winner!

“The club sends its condolences to Bredge, Donald, Martin, Declan, Dominic, Rory, and Tracey, Donna, and Clare & Conan, as well as the wider O'Connor & Tracey family circles.

“RIP Connor.”

Underneath their tribute to an individual that meant a lot to the club and community, there were a number of messages of condolence to the family and friends of Connor.

Many made comments for Connor to ‘Rest in Peace,’ including Magherafelt Sky Blues Football Club, while others remembered his footballing ability and his impact as a teammate.