Paul Coyle tributes paid following sudden death of ex-county star and Sigerson Cup winner

Fermanagh GAA have led the tributes to former great Paul Coyle who passed away suddenly on Monday. The Belleek native, who lived in Swatragh in recent times, is husband to Sally and father of Aoife, Peadar, Niall, Emer, Meabh and Fergal.

The Devenish clubman wore the Fermanagh colours for over a decade at all age levels from 1984 to 1995 when success was scarce but he is remembered as one of the most stylish forwards the county ever produced. He also represented Ulster University where he won the Sigerson Cup and the Ryan Cup.

When Malachy O'Rourke took the Fermanagh management job in 2007 he brought in his trusted pal and former student housemate Coyle as his selector. At that time, Coyle had six children under the age of eight at home. Home was Swatragh, Co Derry - a three-hour round trip from Fermanagh's training base at Lissan, which points to his devotion to the game and his county.

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A Fermanagh statement yesterday read: "Paul graced the Devenish and Fermanagh jerseys with distinction, a nippy corner forward who caused many defenders trouble.

"While Paul may have moved out of Fermanagh, his commitment and passion to the county never waned. He was instrumental in helping us guide Fermanagh to the 2008 Ulster final, a first in 26 years.

"His passion, friendly chat and big smile will be greatly missed by us all in Fermanagh."

His home club Devenish St Mary's paid their own tribute online.

"It was with deep regret, sadness and shock that we learned of the death of our past player and friend, Paul Coyle," it began.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time and in the days ahead. Paul had a distinguished playing career with Devenish and Fermanagh GAA, winning five senior championship medals and five senior leagues. He claimed Sigerson and Ryan Cup medals with Ulster University Gaelic Academy in 1987 and was also a Freshers captain.

"He later went on to play for Loch Mhic Ruairí Naomh Treasa GAA and Michael Davitt GAC Swatragh. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by everyone associated with Devenish St Mary's. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Ulster University Gaelic Academy also posted a heartfelt tribute online.

"It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the untimely passing of our esteemed past player Paul. A fantastic footballer, fresher captain, Sigerson & Ryan Cup winner with Ulster University. A true gentleman with an infectious smile and personally. Paul had time for everyone. We have lost a very dear friend.

"Ulster University Gaelic Academy and Ulster University Gaelic Alumni offer our deepest condolences to his wife Sally, his children Aoife, Peadar, Niall, Emer, Meabh and Fergal.

"We offer our deepest sympathies to his mother Breege, his brothers and sisters Kevin, Declan, Adrian, Patsy, Sharon and Caroline. We extend our sympathies to the wider Coyle and Mooney family circle. Gone, but will never be forgotten. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Many who knew Paul Coyle also added their tributes on social media.

"In total shock hearing this sad news I worked with Paul many years ago was a legend on the football field my sincere condolences to Sally and his children and all the Coyle family at this sad time RIP Paul," said Leo McGurn.

Nigel McKinney posted: "Totally shocked to hear this my paths crossed with Paul in recent years through work. He worked in the cooperative movement and was highly experienced and regarded. My condolences to all his family, colleagues and friends."

Johnny McKeefry added: "Such sad news to learn of Paul’s passing. Have fond memories of him and in particular when he first came to Swatragh and the positive impact he had on us younger players."

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