Crossmaglen Rangers player Caolan Finnegan has died aged 20. He was diagnosed last year with an aggressive form of brain cancer.

The club confirmed the heartbreaking news on their social media channels on Friday morning with all club activities suspended until further notice.

Affectionately known as ‘Stringer’, Finnegan played for the South Armagh club as recently as last year’s Championship opener against Clan na Gael.

Finnegan’s Fight

Finnegan’s passing marks a profound loss for the GAA community. He was a young player with a bright future ahead of him, and his life was cut tragically short by a merciless disease. The community rallied around Finnegan during his illness, and his story touched the hearts of many.

The news of his passing has prompted a wave of tributes from across the GAA world. Finnegan was known for his fighting spirit and his dedication to the sport. He was a role model for many young players, and his passing is a reminder of the fragility of life.

The news of his passing has been met with sadness and disbelief by many.

Caolan's Impact on Crossmaglen Rangers

Finnegan’s impact on Crossmaglen Rangers was undeniable. He was a key member of the team, and he played a pivotal role in their recent successes. He was a talented and versatile player who could operate in a number of positions on the field. Finnegan was also a popular figure in the dressing room, and he was respected by his teammates and coaches alike.

Finnegan was a true Ranger, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on through the club he loved, and he will be an inspiration to future generations of players.

Support for Caolan

When the sides clashed again in last weekend’s rematch at Davitt Park, the Crossmaglen players all donned bibs with his number 15 on them and ‘Care for Caolan’ across the front. The aforementioned fundraising initiative meant that Caolan was able to travel to Germany for specialised treatment with over £300,000 raised.

At Armagh’s press conference after their All-Ireland final win over Galway, Oisin O’Neill, Caolan’s cousin, wore a t-shirt to promote the campaign with Kieran McGeeney stating that Caolan Finnegan would have been part of the Orchard squad this season had it not been for his illness.

The Legacy of Caolan Finnegan

Caolan Finnegan’s story is one of courage, resilience, and determination. He fought his illness with every ounce of strength he had, and he never gave up hope. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, and his legacy will live on long after his passing.

In a statement, Crossmaglen said Caolan will be “forever in our hearts” adding he was “one of the greatest who ever donned the black and amber.”

“Caolan lost his battle earlier this morning. A battle he fought with enormous courage, strength and dignity. We are so proud of you Caolan. A true Ranger. You will be forever remembered as one of the greatest who ever donned the black & amber. Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace Stringer. All club activities are suspended. #15.”

Despite the devastating news, it’s clear that Finnegan’s spirit will continue to inspire the Crossmaglen Rangers and the wider GAA community for years to come. He was a true warrior on and off the field, and he will be deeply missed.

Remembering Stringer

A fundraising page set up to support Caolan also shared the news this morning saying: “It is with deep sadness and regret that we inform you of the untimely passing of our dear Caolan ‘Stringer’ . May his beautiful and gentle soul Rest in Peace. Heaven will look after him now.”

Armagh coach and former Kerry star Kieran Donaghy posted on social media: “So sad. Devastating loss for his family, friends and the Crossmaglen community. “Stringer battled as hard as he could, showed up at a session before the All Ireland to inspire the Armagh boys, it worked. Rest in peace Caolan.”

In a statement, Armagh GAA added: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Caolan Finnegan. We send our most sincere condolences to Caolan’s family, his friends and fellow gaels from Crossmaglen Rangers and the wider GAA family during this difficult time. Please continue to keep them in your prayers. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

The defending Armagh SFC champions had been due to face Sarsfield’s on Sunday while their seconds were set to take on Keady in the Intermediate Championship. Both those games have been postponed.