The death took place over the weekend of Harry Cassidy, who was an iconic figure in Bellaghy GAA.

Harry gave a lifetime of outstanding service to the south Derry club as a player, manager and administrator. Part of the first Bellaghy team to win a Derry SFC title in 1956, he represented his club and county with distinction before going on to manage both. His finest hour came in 1972 when he guided the Wolfe Tones to an All-Ireland club SFC title.

Harry also served as Bellaghy chairman for over 30 years across three different terms. In 2007, he was presented with Derry GAA’s prestigious An Curadh Mhir (The Champions Portion) award by the then GAA president Nickey Brennan.

Paying tribute to Harry, Bellaghy GAC described him as a ‘true giant’ of the club.

“Hailing from a rich footballing bloodline which has served Bellaghy with a wealth of footballing talent over the years, it’s difficult to distinguish Harry’s greatest achievement across a lifetime of service with Bellaghy & Derry,” the club said.

“Harry is our longest serving chairman with over 30 years’ service as club chairman across three separate terms, notably showing his typical leadership & character by stepping into the role following the murder of our late chairman Sean Brown.

“He enjoyed a successful playing career for both Bellaghy & Derry and indeed went on to manage Derry from 1972-74.

“However, it was guiding his own Bellaghy to All Ireland glory as manager of the famous 1972 team which topped them all. Harry Cassidy is Bellaghy and Bellaghy GAC was built & carried by men like Harry. He will be sorely missed, though his legacy will live long in the blue and white.

“We think of Harry’s immediate family and the wider Cassidy circle at this time. Ar dheis de go raibh an anam.”

Harry Cassidy RIP
Today we lost a true giant of Bellaghy GAC with the passing of Harry Cassidy
Our club was built and carried by men like Harry- serving both club & county as a player & manager, while his 30yrs as chairman over 3 terms is unmatched
Ar dheis go raibh a anam dilis pic.twitter.com/xBLgRQpjyv

— Bellaghy Wolfe Tones GAC (@BellaghyGAC) March 31, 2023

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