Tributes have poured in for Aodhán Gillen, a young footballer who sadly passed away on Thursday.
A GoFundMe had been set up on Monday as the 22-year-old was in a coma in the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast to raise funds for the “young lad and his family”.
The GoFundMe remains open, with the organiser thanking everyone for their “amazing support on the page for the family.” So far, the page has raised a total of £4,670 (€5,340), far surpassing the initial goal of £1,200 (€1,370).
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Aodhán was a talented football player, having played for Dundela Football Club since joining in January, leaving a massive impact on the club in such a short time.
"It is with deep regret and sadness that Dundela Football Club informs our supporters of the death of Aodhán Gillen," a statement on Dundela FC’s Facebook said.
"Aodhán sadly passed away at the Royal Victoria Hospital Belfast on Thursday 6 April.
"Aodhán came to Dundela in January, and straight away his caring nature, and his friendly attitude made him a popular player with his teammates and members of the club.
"Aodhán as many will know was a quiet man, but when Aodhan got a ball at his feet he became a different person.
"In the short time, Aodhán was at Dundela he very quickly showed how talented a player he was, a talent that was very evident as to why he got a move to the Premiership with Carrick Rangers.
"Aodhán was a throwback to the golden days of out-and-out wingers, confident on the ball, pace, and belief in his own ability, saw him dominate full-backs in his early games, but what made Aodhán stand out most, was his determination to continually improve, and his unselfish nature. This is what made Aodhán so popular and liked by so many.
"We as a club cannot fathom the unimaginable pain Aodhán’s family and friends are experiencing at present, and we offer them our sincere condolences at this devastating time.
"We also offer our sincere condolences to all at Carrick Rangers and Newington FC, both clubs in which Aodhán has many close friends and was equally held in the high esteem he was at Dundela FC.
"Our players and staff have been devastated upon hearing this news. Having sadly experienced the loss of a player in the past, we as a club will provide all the necessary support mechanisms for players and staff going forward. Rest in peace Aodhán."
You can donate to the GoFundMe page here.
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