Clare in shock at death of star White

CLARE’S GAA community was in shock last night after the sudden death of senior inter-county footballer Niall White.

White (23), a member of the St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield club, was found dead at his Ennis home on Monday. He was a member of the Clare senior football panel for the last three seasons and represented his county in the McGrath Cup final against Kerry in January and the recent National Football League. A dual star with his club, he excelled at both hurling and football through the grades, right up to senior rank. In recent times he rejoined St Joseph’s senior footballers for training after recovering from an injury suffered while playing for his county. PRO Of the Doora-Barefield club, Seamus O’Sullivan, told The Clare People: “The club is still in shock and coming to terms with the news. We still cannot believe the news about Niall. Such a young man, this is a terrible tragedy. He was so talented, a totally committed hurler and footballer. This is a terrible loss to his family,” said O’Sullivan.

County Board chairman Michael O’Neill also expressed his shock: “Clare GAA’s deepest sympathies go out to the White family at this time. Niall played with the county senior footballers this year and Clare GAA is in shock at this very sad news.”

Added Clare senior football coach Micheál McDermott: “Niall was a young lad that we had on the Clare panel for the last two or three years. What you got from Niall was huge honesty and commitment. It’s a tragedy that a life as promising as his was cut short. His family hassuffered a huge loss and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time,” said the Banner boss.

Niall White is survived by his parents, Mary and Pat and his sister Ciara.