Monaghan United announced on Saturday morning that Sean McCaffrey has passed away at the age of 58. McCaffrey was a founding member of the club. He went on to manage Monaghan aged just 23.
He also managed the Ireland U17, U18 and U19 teams, taking over in the role from Brian Kerr in 2003. It was a position he held until 2010. Prior to that he had worked as a development officer with the FAI.
In a statement on their Facebook page, Monaghan United said:
It is with regret that Monaghan United has learned of the death of Seán McCaffrey, former Monaghan United and National team manager. Funeral arrangements not yet known. At dheis dé go raibh a anam.
McCaffrey also spent time as manager of Dundalk in 2012.
Tributes have been paid to the hugely popular Monaghan man.
Sean McCaffrey was an inspiration to hundreds of schoolboy footballers. He was my first coach, the first grown-up I wanted to be like and the man who suggested I try to get into sports journalism.
Heart-broken today at the news of his death.
Sleep well, Seán. RIP.— Malachy Clerkin (@MalachyClerkin) December 30, 2017
The club is saddened to learn of the death of former #DundalkFC manager, Seán McCaffrey. We offer our deepest condolences to Seán’s family and friends at this time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. pic.twitter.com/wblLtMH4Gu
— Dundalk FC (@DundalkFC) December 30, 2017
Sad to hear of the death of Sean McCaffrey. Took over from Brian Kerr in 2003 and managed our Under17/18 and 19 sides.#RIP pic.twitter.com/Ep0vCwAmGb
— YBIG (@YouBoysInGreen) December 30, 2017
