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Connacht Rugby is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Gerry O’Donnell - one of our greatest friends and a true inspiration in our province.
Gerry served as President of Connacht Rugby during our PRO 12 winning season in 2015/16.
He dedicated his life to the development of our sport at all levels ever since he joined Ballina.
A former President of Ballina RFC, Gerry leaves behind an incredible legacy for his work with Connacht Rugby and Ballina.
He remained a familiar face to everyone at the club, attending matches or visiting the Sportsground offices when he could.
CEO of Connacht Rugby Willie Ruane paid the following tribute:
“Gerry’s passing represents a very sad day for everyone involved in the game of rugby in Connacht and for anyone who had the great fortune of knowing him.
It’s hard to fully state the extent of the impact he had on so many peoples lives, both across his own club of Ballina but also across the game in Connacht and beyond.
From my own personal perspective so much of what I have been fortunate enough to experience in the game of rugby had its origins in Gerry and for that I will be forever grateful.
My own sons and many others have been equally fortunate to have had the benefit of Gerry’s influence and friendship through their involvement with Ballina Rugby Club and they will miss his constant presence and support at every training session and every match.
In many respects the honour of being President of Connacht Rugby in 2016, when we won the Pro 12, was a fitting reward for a lifetime of selfless service to the game and to others.
On behalf of everyone at Connacht Rugby I want to extend our deepest sympathies to Gerry’s wife Olive and his children Olga, Roger, Olwyn and Rodney.
He will be sorely missed but very fondly remembered. May he rest in peace.”