Fionn O'Brien who died in a tragic surfing accident in Co. Clare on Monday morning was a talented dual player with his local GAA club.

20-year-old Fionn was a lifeguard with Clare County Council and played both hurling and football for St Joseph's Doora-Barefield.

It's believed Fionn got into some difficulty while surfing with friends at Lough Donnell beach near Quilty.

He was given CPR as he was airlifted to University Hospital Limerick but was later pronounced dead. 

The tragic incident happened just days after Fionn had scored a goal for St Joseph's Doora-Barefield's intermediate hurling team in their Clare Cup victory over Whitegate.

"Blessed with great skill and lightning speed," St Josephs Doora-Barefield's paid a heartfelt tribute to Fionn on social media.

"It was with great sadness and huge shock on Monday that we learned of the death of our club man , team mate and friend Fionn O Brien (20) following a tragic accident," the club wrote.

"Fionn was a very talented dual player with the club blessed with great skill and lightning speed. Even at such a young age he had already contributed hugely with the promise of a lot more to come . 

"He had won u14 and U16 titles in hurling and Minor in football. His goal to draw the U16 hurling final in 2017 will always be spoken of and reminisced about.

"Only last Friday in what ultimately proved to be his last game for the club Fionn scored a goal for the Intermediate hurlers with the last play of the match.

"Everyone in the club extend their sympathies to his parents Michelle and Pat, brothers Conor and Niall and sister Sadhbh.

"Fionn will always be remembered as part of the rich history of our club , his name always mentioned in glowing terms and his memory never forgotten.

"Rest easy Fob. You will be sorely missed."

Rest In peace Fionn https://t.co/e65Ndi1Hnd pic.twitter.com/x5mjEAvYiX

— St. Joseph's Doora Barefield GAA Club (@StJosephsDBGAA) July 6, 2021

 

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