The small north Cork village of Glanworth came to a standstill yesterday as hundreds braved heavy rain to pay their last respects to Kevin Quinn.
The 18-year-old hurler took ill and died while playing with his local team Harbour Rovers in a match last Friday night.
Glanworth curate Father Robin Morrissey told mourners that Kevin's tragic death had left the community searching for answers. "Why? That is the question that so many people have been asking for the last few days. People are numb, confused and silent. A small rural community has been torn apart with grief," he said.
"Kevin, a fit young man, full of life and fun went on to the field last Friday night, hoping to bring home a cup. It wasn't meant to be and at times like this, words fail us, words are certainly inadequate," he told the mourners who thronged the Holy Cross church and spilled out into the yard.
Kevin was an apprentice electrician and was deeply involved in the GAA.
His team-mates, along with Glanworth GAA club officials and members of the All-Ireland club championship winning Newtownshandrum team, had taken turns to shoulder Kevin's coffin draped in the green and white of Glanworth from the club's grounds to the Holy Cross Church.
After requiem Mass, Glanworth GAA spokesman Mr Ollie Ryan recalled how Kevin's bubbly personality ensured he was always a popular player. "He was loved by all whose lives he touched. From his first Saturday morning on the pitch as a child, he endeared himself to everyone with his warm smile and his enthusiasm."
The mourners were led by Kevin's parents Seán and Helena, his sister Natasha, brother Seán Óg, and girlfriend Ailish Curran. Among the many GAA officials present were Cork County Board chairman Mr Jim Forbes, vice-chairman Mr Mick Dolan, and former GAA president Mr Con Murphy.
