A Co. Down GAA club has been left devastated by the death of one of its most dedicated members in a road crash.

Twenty-seven-year-old Karl Heaney died in the crash on the A1 between Banbridge and Dromore on Wednesday night. He was expected to play for the Newry Mitchels senior footballers in a match tonight after recently returning from an injury.

A Newry Mitchels statement read: "Karl was a true gentleman who never had a bad word to say about anyone and always had a smile on his face. Always willing to help out in any capacity within the club, he epitomised all that is good in the GAA.

"Karl Heaney, a dedicated Gael, senior player for Newry Mitchels GFC, an avid Liverpool FC fan, but most of all a devoted son, brother, uncle, friend and boyfriend of Ciara. 

"He will be missed by everyone who knew him within our club and far beyond and his loss will leave a huge void in the many lives he touched."

Brooklyn Shamrocks GFC, who Karl played with while in New York in 2014, also paid tribute. 

"Karl joined the Brooklyn Shamrocks in the summer of 2014 and was a part of the team that took Longford to extra-time in the semi-final that year," the club said.

"To say Karl was loved by everyone that met him is an understatement. Karl was the most happy, fun and easy-going fella ever to pull on a jersey for this club. There was a smile permanently stretched across his face at all times.

"He was always up for the craic and a laugh. It was a pleasure just to be in his company. He loved that summer in New York and returned twice since then on short visits.

"The club extends its heartfelt sorrow and condolences to the Heaney family, Karl's girlfriend Ciara and all Karl's friends at home and here in NY. A bright shining light has gone out in this world."

Be sure to follow the hoganstand.com Live Match Tracker this weekend for all the latest action from the senior football and hurling championships.

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