We are sad to report the death of former Dublin footballer and hurler Mick Holden. Mick, who was only 52 years of age, died suddenly this morning, Wednesday 26th September. He played with the Cuala club who choose their pick from around the Dalkey area of south Dublin. Cuala is a dual operation and the late Mick excelled in both grades, playing at most underage levels for the Dubs. He lined out with the Dublin senior hurlers for years and figured at centre half forward as Leinster won the 1979 Railway Cup hurling competition at Connacht's expense. But to most, Mick Holden will be remembered as the teak tough defender on the Dublin football team of the late 1970s and early 1980s. With the long blond hair immediately bringing his actions to the attention of the crowd, Mick lined out at full back on the Dublin selection beaten by Kerry in the 1979 All-Ireland decider. His biggest moment arrived in the 1983 final when the Dubs beat Galway in what was probably the most controversial All-Ireland ever. Inspired by Holden in the number 2 jersey, the Sky Blues, down to 12 men, held out in the face of a gale and fierce Galway pressure. He and Dublin were back 12 months later. Again Mick Holden lined out at right full back but again Kerry proved that bit stronger. Mick Holden became one of the few players to win Railway Cup medals in both codes and when Leinster gained Railway Cup football honours for the first time after 11 years in 1985, there was Mick in his favourite number 2 jersey. Our deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Nickey Brennan, President of the GAA, said this evening that he was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death of former Dublin hurler and All Ireland senior football medal winner, Mick Holden. The President said that Mick was one of the most charismatic, colourful and passionate players to ever play Gaelic Games. From Kilkenny heritage, Mick and his brothers PJ and Vinne, under the tutelage of their  late father Tom, became synonymous with Cuala, the spirit of Gaelic Games and all that is associated with being role models. The President said that "Mick embodied that rare gift of being a gentleman who enjoyed every minute on the playing field while performing in the hard edge of the cauldron of Intercounty football at the highest level. Mick's tousled blonde hair made him stand out on the field of play as he excelled in all that is the cocktail of skill, commitment and pride in the jersey that represents the complete County player." The President said "a light went out today in Dublin and GAA circles with the news of Mick's untimely death." He expressed his condolences to Mick's family and his large circle of friends. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a hanam dilis Tweet

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