Tragically, Offaly U21 hurling manager Dermot Hogan has died after a fall at his family farm yesterday evening.

The 45-year-old Coolderry clubman, who was given a two-year term at the Faithful County helm earlier this year, was fatally injured when he fell through the roof of a shed he had been painting.

Hogan had been heavily involved in Coolderry and Offaly GAA all his life and his managerial record with his home club, which straddles the Offaly-Tipperary border, is exceptional.

In 2008, he led them to the county minor title and he also managed them to U21 glory two years later. He served as a selector with the Offaly minor team last year before taking over as U21 manager in April, succeeding Ger Coughlan.

Offaly were eliminated by holders and champions-elect Wexford at the Leinster semi-final stage last month.

Offaly chairman Padraig Boland, in offering his heartfelt sympathy to Dermot's family, said: "Dermot's positivity towards Offaly hurling was infectious. While Dermot's loss to Coolderry and Offaly hurling will be huge, it pales into insignificance when compared to the loss that will be felt by his wife Marie and family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this extremely sad time."

Dermot is survived by his wife Marie, daughters Lisa, Rachel and Ciara, parents Kieran and Margaret, brothers Kevin and Eugene and a large circle of relatives and friends.

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