Down legend Brendan Sloan passes away
March 24, 2016
Down All Ireland SFC champions 1968. Front l-r: Brendan Sloan, Peter Rooney, Mickey Cole, Joe Lennon, Paddy Doherty, Colm McAlarney, John Purdy. Back l-r: Tom O'Hare, John Murphy, Ray McConville, Willie Doyle, Danny Kelly, Sean O'Neill, Jim Milligan, Dan McCartan
Down GAA is in mourning today following the passing of one of its playing greats Brendan Sloan.
Right corner-back on Down's 1968 All-Ireland SFC winning side, Brendan was considered to be one of the Mourne County's greatest defenders. With Dan McCartan on the edge of the square and the flamboyant Tom O Hare at left full he formed a formidable inner line of defence.
Earlier in the year Down had gained NFL honours and that September win over Kerry saw a notable double obtained.
The Atticall star donned the black and red for many years, including his minor years when he helped Down to reach the All-Ireland final against Mayo in 1966, lining out at right half-back.
That minor team were beaten by a Seamus O Dowd inspired westerners but the like of Sloan, Colm McAlarney, John Murphy, John Purdy, Mickey Cole and Peter Rooney were to form the backbone of the successful 68 senior team. All under 20 but amazingly that fine Down team disappeared into the sunset.
An iconic image of Brendan would prevail from Down's Ulster SFC final victory over Cavan in 68 which pictured him fielding a ball in his own square at Casement Park.
Down GAA commented on their website this afternoon that it was "an image that fully reflected the skill and determination of the man".
It marks a sad week for the county after Tuesday's passing of Newry Shamrocks man Eugene Treanor, who was a member of the extended panel in 1968.
TweetIt is with sadness that we learn of the death of Brendan Sloan 1968 all Ireland team RIP pic.twitter.com/s4ajubDoHc
- Official Down GAA (@OfficialDownGAA) March 24, 2016
