Every now and then, life has that innate ability to knock the wind out of your sails. The news late on Friday morning of the untimely death of Damian McGovern was one of those such occasions that we never want to hear.
All Gaels across all clubs in Fermanagh have been hit hard with the news that has totally shocked and saddened people to hear about the death of the Derrygonnelly Harps Youth Chairman and Minor manager. And while Fermanagh Gaels and especially Derrygonnelly Harps are mourning the loss of a gifted individual, the loss pales into insignificance when one contemplates the sorrow of the McGovern and McGinley families who have lost a husband, father, son, brother and friend.
The thoughts and most heartfelt sympathies of everyone throughout Fermanagh GAA are foremost with Damian’s wife Leeanne, sons Gavin, Rian and Ronan and his daughter Niamh. We also offer our condolences to his mother Irene, brothers John, Roger and sister Grainne and the entire family circle at this most tragic of circumstances. Damian was heavily involved in the Derrygonnelly Harps club, from being a long standing Goalkeeper with the club, to managing the Juniors, U16s and Minor teams to recent Fermanagh Championship and League successes, he was always involved in some way with a cheeky smile that we will all remember.
This weekend puts football into perspective, Damian’s loss has robbed the football fields of Fermanagh and Canon Maguire Park of a truly great man.
We have lost a gifted individual, but ultimately a family has lost its loved one and it is to them that the thoughts and prayers of everyone at Fermanagh GAA go out to at this time.
Rest easy in heaven Damian, you will be sadly missed
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
