GAA club pays tribute to young player (16) who died suddenly
A GAA club in Co Mayo has paid tribute to a young player who died suddenly on Tuesday evening.
Christopher Gavin (16) played football with Westport GAA Club. He became ill at training and later died at Mayo University Hospital on Tuesday, April 29th.
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Christopher was a transition year student at Rice College in Westport. His twin brother Michael is also part of the Westport minor squad.
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In a statement, Westport GAA Club said: "Our town of Westport, its schools and our GAA community woke today to the heartbreaking news that Christopher Gavin, one of our current GAA minor players, a dedicated teammate and a true friend to so many had passed away while in Mayo General Hospital early this morning.
"Chris's twin brother Michael is also a member of our minor squad, with both players committed to their teams and teammates over their many years at our club".
The statement added: "All of our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with the Gavin family at this tragic time. As the twins' coaches, we are utterly lost for words to express how sad our whole GAA community is feeling right now for this immense loss."
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Chris lined out with his team against Achill last week, where he played with the number 15 jersey.
The club said: "Chris' team came away with a win that day, and it is nice to know that his last game representing his club was a happy memory for him. As a mark of respect to Chris and his family, that winning number 15 jersey of Chris' will be retired for the rest of our season, ensuring Chris will be remembered as part of our squad at every game by his team and club".
The club said dealing with the loss will be difficult. "We have had opportunities in the past to discuss with Chris' teammates about getting over the loss of a game, how we support each other, and how we pick each other up and go again. Chris' teammates and our GAA community now take up that same challenge by supporting the Gavin family during these very sad days."
Rice College paid tribute to Christopher and called him a "wonderful" student.
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"The school community of Rice College are struggling after hearing of his passing in Mayo General Hospital. We extend our sympathies to Chris's parents Michael and Karen. To his twin brother Michael, his sisters Cathy and Emma. May his gentle soul rest in peace".
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