Derrylaughan pay tribute to club ‘giant’

DERRYLAUGHAN have paid a glowing tribute to club icon John McCann, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 88 surrounded by his loving family.

Mr McCann was devoted to all matters Derrylaughan GAA since the club was established in his childhood, first as a player and subsequently as a successful coach and respected administrator. He remained involved with the club right until his passing, serving as the Kevin Barry’s Honorary President since 2018.

John played in the Tyrone Senior Championship final of 1957 alongside his brother Mick as captain, while injury ruled him out of playing in the late sixties at the end of the team’s long battle to win the championship, competing in five out of six finals in a row.

He served on the club committee across various spells including two stints as chairman and he excelled in leading the club youth almost single-handedly for almost two decades.

Paying tribute to his ceaseless efforts and expressing condolences to his family in an officially released statement on behalf of the club, Derrylaughan said, “The youth loved him, and he loved the youth. He always said, “we have the best lads”. He coached the various teams to many underage titles and secured many players for the future. He drove the club bus for many years, and he was always at the centre of fundraising and working for the club.

“For over 20 years his efforts seemed unending when he travelled to Ardboe and Moortown every week selling the club Lotto.

“He might have been quick-tempered – definitely like – but heated exchanges were quickly forgotten. John was without question, a very dedicated and loyal clubman who will be sorely missed.

“Condolences to his twin brother Mick, his sister Theresa, and the late Anna whose heart was immersed in our club. To his sons Patrick, Sean and Adrian and daughters Briege and Siobhan, and his son-in-law Adrian McKenna who all contribute to the running of our club as well as his grandchildren Callum, Nathan, Katie McCann and Aoife, Conall, and Cara McKenna.

“Our club has lost a legend, John will be truly missed on our shores. We will always remember his devotion and strength of character and will continue to honour his legacy.”

John’s funeral Mass was held on Sunday at St Patrick’s Church in Clonoe.