Curry GAA lead tributes to Sligo footballer Red Óg Murphy, who died aged 21

Tributes have been paid to Sligo footballer Red Óg Murphy, who has died aged 21.

The vastly talented 21-year-old was studying to be a teacher in DCU, where he also starred on the university’s football team.

Chairman of Curry GAA Barry Gallagher said: “We learned yesterday afternoon of the death of Red Óg Murphy. This is a terrible tragedy for the Murphy family, our club and our community.

“We are deeply saddened by these events. Our sympathy and thoughts are with the Murphy/Lavin families and friends. Red Óg was a member of Curry GAA club and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

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“We have been in contact with his parents and they have requested that we all understand their need for privacy at this difficult time. Offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated.

“The clubhouse is open to all, to support them and to offer them advice and guidance. We would ask you to respect our privacy at this time.”

The Gaelic Players Association wrote in tribute: “We remember Red Óg Murphy, a young man gone far too early. To his family, loved ones, friends and teammates; our hearts are broken for you.

“Players across Ireland have lost one of their own. May he rest in peace.”

In 2019, he returned to Sligo from a stint as a professional footballer in the AFL with North Melbourne, after less than 12 months of a two-year contract citing a lack of love for the game.

He featured in all 12 of Sligo’s league and championship games throughout 2020 and 2021, scoring 1-15, but opted out of Tony McEntee’s 2022 panel so he could focus on his studies and club commitments.

Considered one of the country's finest young GAA players, he first came to prominence in schools football with St Attracta's in Tubbercurry and was this year named on the Sigerson team of the year.