Down legend Kevin O'Neill passes away

The Down team that won the Sam Maguire Cup in 1960, front l/r: Eamonn McKay, Patsy O Hagan, Paddy Doherty, Kevin Mussen, George Lavery, Tony Hadden, Brian Morgan. Back: James McCartan, Joe Lennon, Jarlath Carey, Leo Murphy, Dan McCartan, Sean O Neill, Kevin O Neill, Pat Rice.

Down GAA is in mourning following the passing of Kevin O’Neill, a proud member of the county’s historic All-Ireland senior football championship-winning teams of 1960 and 1961.

The Newry native played his part in Down’s landmark 1960 triumph, as the Mourne County claimed the Sam Maguire Cup for the first time. Down successfully defended their title in 1961, securing their place among the great teams in Gaelic football history.

A formidable defender, O’Neill began his football journey with Newry Mitchels, winning four Down SFC titles with the club. He also featured on the Abbey CBS, Newry team that won the MacRory Cup in 1954.

O’Neill’s passing leaves just two surviving members of Down’s historic 1960 All-Ireland-winning team: his brother Sean and team captain Kevin Mussen.

Down GAA extended its sincere condolences to the O’Neill family, friends and all who knew him.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.