Passing Away of Former Roscommon Gaelic Football Player Don Connellan at the Age of 51
Don Connellan, Prominent GAA Figure, Passes Away at 51
Don Connellan, a highly respected figure in Gaelic football, has passed away at the age of 51. Known for his playing and managerial achievements with both Roscommon and Galway, Connellan left an indelible mark on the GAA communities in both provinces.
As a player, Connellan made his inter-county debut for Roscommon in 1993 and was a key member of the team that won the 2001 Connacht Senior Football Championship. Notably, he played a crucial role in the team's victories over Galway in the semi-final and Mayo in the final. At club level, he was instrumental in helping Kilmore reach county finals in 1998, 1999, and 2001.
After retiring from playing, Connellan moved to Galway where he had significant managerial success. He led Maigh Cuilinn to historic first county finals in 2020, and went on to guide them to county and Connacht titles in 2022, narrowly missing out on the All-Ireland semi-final. Beyond club management, he also led the University of Galway to Sigerson Cup victory in 2021, having himself won the Sigerson Cup as a player with UCG in 1992.
After leaving Roscommon, Connellan managed Moycullen to senior success in Galway in both 2020 and 2022. His impact on the GAA communities was profound, as evidenced by the numerous tributes that highlighted his leadership, playing ability, and coaching excellence.
Connellan is survived by his wife Linda, sons Eoin and Conor, brothers Adrian and David, and an extended Clancy and Connellan family. He will be deeply missed by many friends. An overwhelming sense of sorrow and sadness has fallen upon Roscommon and his home club Kilmore, following Connellan's passing.
Connellan represented Roscommon on the Connacht Railway Cup team and made 73 appearances for the Roscommon senior team, scoring 3-38. His mother's name was Nellie.
In his memory, Connellan's contributions to Roscommon GAA will always be remembered, including his role in the 2001 Connacht SFC winning side. His legacy in Gaelic football across the provinces will live on.
No words can truly console Don Connellan's family at this terrible time. Our thoughts and condolences go out to them.
[1] Roscommon Herald [2] Galway Advertiser [3] Connacht Tribune [4] Irish Independent
Sports enthusiasts across the provinces will mourn the passing of Don Connellan, a renowned figure in Gaelic football. As a player, he led Roscommon to the 2001 Connacht Senior Football Championship victory, and later as a manager, he guided Maigh Cuilinn to county and Connacht titles in Galway, ultimately reaching the All-Ireland semi-final.
