Cork LGFA has confirmed that All-Ireland winning manager Eamonn Ryan has died.
Ryan passed away on Thursday afternoon following a battle with an illness.
The Watergrasshill man led the Cork ladies footballers to an incredible 10 titles during 12 years in charge. He also managed the Cork men's team between 1980 and 1984, and recently served as a selector under both Peadar Healy and Ronan McCarthy.
It is with huge sadness we inform you that Eamnon Ryan @GlenvilleGAA @WatergrasshillG @ucc_gaa @CorkLGFA & @OfficialCorkGAA passed on to his eternal rest this afternoon after a illness bravely fought. A legend in his own lifetime.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis . pic.twitter.com/WpDLrm6UHx— Cork LGFA (@CorkLGFA) January 14, 2021
"Eamonn Ryan was a larger than life character who guided Cork to unprecedented success during his spell in charge," said LGFA president Marie Hickey.
"Eamonn’s managerial genius was very much to the fore as Cork won five successive TG4 All-Ireland Senior titles from 2005-2009, and another five-in-a-row from 2011-2015, while he was in charge.
"During Eamonn’s tenure, Cork were also crowned Division 1 National League Champions on nine occasions.
"Eamonn had a unique bond with the players he worked alongside, who all speak of his influence in glowing terms.
"Many of us in the LGFA also had the opportunity to get to know Eamonn on a personal level over the course of many years.
"He joined us on TG4 All Star tours abroad and he was such a personable character, and engaging company.
"I am deeply saddened to learn of Eamonn’s passing and he leaves behind an incredible legacy.
"On behalf of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, I wish to pass on our sincere condolences to Eamonn’s family and friends at this very sad time."
I had the pleasure to report on 165 games while Eamonn Ryan was in charge of @CorkLGFA, and not once did he seek credit. Today, the credit goes to his wife Pat and her family for sharing a legend with the rest of us x pic.twitter.com/CZBOyKsPev
— Mary White (She/Her) (@mary_white33) January 14, 2021
Very sad to hear of the passing of Eamonn Ryan. An unbelievable sporting record but above all else a thorough gentleman. He will be sadly missed. Deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
— Ephie Fitzgerald (@ephiefitzgerald) January 14, 2021
Picture credit: Paul Mohan / SPORTSFILE
