Down and Ulster GAA in mourning as double All-Ireland winner passes away

Belfast Telegraph

08-08-2025

It was in the hugely successful 1960-61 era for his beloved county that Hadden underlined his spectacular skills, particularly at Croke Park where Down captured the All-Ireland title in 1960 and 1961.
It was in those years that Down laid down a marker for Ulster football, and it was Hadden's subtle scoring skills that helped to keep Down in the national limelight.
A fiercely committed player who gave his all in every game, Hadden merged skill and power in scripting his invaluable contribution to the Down team's cause.
The fact that he was surrounded by legends such as Paddy Doherty, James McCartan and Kevin Mussen, among others, saw Hadden elevated to a new high.
It was in the early '60s that the Down team lapped up plaudits from all quarters, their spectacular brand of football and positive attitude winning them admirers far beyond their county boundary.
Never one to bask in the glory of Down's success, Hadden preferred instead to see people lap up the team's success and enjoy their triumphs.
Just as is the case today, the rivalry was tough and demanding then, with Hadden regularly in the spotlight as he left his imprint on games at different levels.
A hard-working, conscientious player he created scoring openings for his colleagues and maintained his drive and energy until the full-time whistle sounded in every game in which he played.
While he devoted himself to Down, he also rendered outstanding service to his club Newry Shamrocks, whom he led to the county championship title in 1961.
Even then the Shamrocks boasted a rich seam of talent, with the ubiquitous Hadden never far from the core of the action. Indeed, his commitment and unremitting zeal cemented his value to the team, particularly when the chips were down.
His commitment to his beloved Shamrocks club was absolute and he derived immense satisfaction from their achievements.
He proved a mentor for many players who attempted to follow in his footsteps and he never failed to commit himself to good causes or when fund-raising was essential.
He has followed the fortunes of Down of late and took considerable satisfaction in the team's Tailteann Cup last year.
Like many thousands in the county, he had hoped that the team might achieve greater things – just as he had done when in his prime.