Damian Casey, a star hurler for Tyrone GAA, has died aged 29 after a swimming accident in Spain. 

Mr Casey played for Eoghan Ruadh GAA club in Dungannon and the county’s senior hurling team. 

Tyrone GAA said they were “totally shaken” by the news and described him as “young, talented, outgoing and in the prime of life.”

Damian Casey was a special gift to Tyrone and to hurling. We were the richer for his presence and are the poorer for his passing.

‘D’imigh tú i mbláth na hóige, ar Sholas na bhFlaitheas go raibh d’anam’https://t.co/0WJyx8FJoP pic.twitter.com/tHpU3mPbyx

— Tyrone GAA (@TyroneGAALive) June 18, 2022

While Michael Kerr, Tyrone county board chairman, said that, "Someone who brought honour, delight and simple, straightforward gladness to our whole county, and far beyond, is gone and it's so hard to take in."

The Gaelic Players Association tweeted that: "Players across Ireland are devastated for the family and friends of Damian Casey and for all in Eoghan Ruadh and Tyrone GAA.

"Damian stood out as a person and leader. On the pitch he was a magician of rare skill.

"He was one of us. He was among the best of us."

Main image: Damian Casey. Picture by: Gaelic Players Association