Former Monaghan footballer Stephen Gollogly dies at 41

Stephen Gollogly has sadly passed away at the age of 41. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

The death has occurred of former Monaghan footballer Stephen Gollogly. The Carrickmacross Emmets man, 41, passed away on Wednesday.

Gollogly, affectionately known as “Jinxy”, claimed two Ulster SFC medals with his county in 2013 and 2015 and three league titles (two Division 2, one Division 3). He retired from the inter-county game in 2017 having made an impressive 133 appearances.

A Monaghan GAA statement read: “Stephen was a proud Carrickmacross Emmets clubman who represented Monaghan with immense pride, commitment, and distinction throughout an outstanding inter-county career.

"A true servant of the county, he made 133 competitive appearances in the white and blue between 2004 and 2017 contributing 3-71 and earning the admiration and respect of teammates, opponents and supporters alike.

"Beyond his many accomplishments, Stephen will be remembered as a gentleman, a loyal clubman and county player, and someone who embodied the very best values of the GAA through his humility, sportsmanship and unwavering commitment.

"Monaghan GAA is deeply grateful to Stephen for his exceptional contribution to Gaelic games and for the lasting legacy he leaves behind, both on and off the field."

Emmets paid tribute to Gollogly, a father of four. "A player of exceptional ability, Stephen represented Carrickmacross Emmets with distinction throughout his career and went on to play senior county football for Monaghan, where he was widely respected for his commitment, skill, and leadership at the highest level of the game.

"At club level, Stephen’s dedication, sportsmanship, and quiet leadership made him a central figure within our teams for many years. He inspired younger players, set standards through his work ethic, and carried himself with an integrity that earned admiration across Carrickmacross Emmets and Monaghan GAA.

“Stephen also gave his time as an U10 juvenile coach, guiding and encouraging our youngest players with positivity and genuine care for their development.

"On behalf of everyone at Carrickmacross Emmets, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Stephen's family, friends, former teammates, and all who knew and loved him. We hold them in our thoughts at this very difficult time.

"We also encourage anyone who may be affected by Stephen's passing to seek support from family, friends, or the services available. Grief can be heavy, and no one should carry it alone. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

Gollogly is survived by his wife Caroline and children Ava, Shay, Grace and Sophie, his parents Peter and Mary and his brother Ronan.