You should never have to write these things for someone younger than you, but sadly I have to inform you that our Club player and friend James ”Jimmy” Baugh was involved in a car accident last night and sadly lost his life.

Jimmy was a gifted footballer, playing for Ballinlough from a young age, going on to Captain the side at U-17 level when winning the Div.4 League title, and from there he made his way onto the adult team shortly afterwards. Hampered by injury through his early years, Jimmy gave his best in every game he was fit to play, and only a couple of weeks ago he was the standout performer for Ballinlough when we lost out to Trim in Round 1 of the League. A tight, tenacious tough defender who could rove up the field when necessary, and a man who, if he gave you a shoulder, you’d know all about it.

Jimmy was equally at home with a hurl and helmet as well as a football, and he lined out for Kilskyre on many occasions, taking up the wing back position when Kilskyre-Moylagh won the U-21 B Championship in 2013, as well as starring for the Junior Hurlers for years afterwards.

He was also an accomplished handball player and spent many of his teenage years on the court in Crossakiel, just a skip across the road from his home. He made it to the U-17 Leinster Singles Final at the first time of asking, before being beaten by a son of the legendary Kilkenny handballer “Ducksy” Walsh, but like with everything in his sporting life, Jimmy went down fighting.

But that’s just sport, off the field and courts, Jimmy was a lovable character with a cheeky smile for everyone. He loved the craic with the lads and having a laugh. He was an exceptional singer of ballads, after a-bit of coaxing, but once he started there was no stopping him and you could hear a pin drop when Jimmy gave a rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” or a Luke Kelly classic, not to mention the fact he was also the undisputed King of the Jukebox with his song choices.

He was a loyal friend to those that knew him, and a welcoming stranger to those yet to have the pleasure of spending time in his company, he was truly one of life’s very fine young men and he has departed this earth far far too soon. 

To his heartbroken parents Billy and Mary, and his sister Susan, we extend our deepest sympathies. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam. Rest In Peace Jimmy. You’ll be missed my friend.

Ballinlough GFC PRO Susan Farrell

Tweet

Most Read Stories