'Unimaginable heartbreak' at Tyrone mascot's passing
March 23, 2026
A Tyrone fan flies their flag. ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.
Tributes have been pouring in following the passing of an eight-year-old Tyrone GAA mascot over the weekend.
Odhrán McGirr, who had the honour of leading out the Red Hands before their recent Allianz Football League win over Offaly in Dungannon, was diagnosed in January 2025 with an aggressive High Grade Glioblastoma which is an extremely rare and difficult-to-treat brain tumour.
The devastating news was confirmed in heartfelt tributes shared by Odhrán’s club Errigal Ciarán and Tyrone GAA on social media.
“It is with unimaginable heartbreak and profound sadness, after a courageous battle, that we learned of the passing of our young player, warrior and dear friend, Odhran McGirr RIP,” Errigal Ciarán wrote.
“Odhran was a cherished member of Aireagal Chiarain GAC – a bright light within our club whose presence brought joy, energy and pride to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“From his earliest days in our colours, he embodied everything that is good about our games – friendship, spirit, resilience and a deep, unwavering love for his club.”
The tribute added: “The McGirr name is woven deeply into the fabric of Aireagal Chiaráin. Odhrán’s grandfather Johnny has given over 30 years of dedicated service as a volunteer; his father Patrick a committed youth coach; his uncle Dermot a longstanding youth officer – alongside a wider family who have been true stalwarts of our club.”
“Odhrán carried that legacy with quiet pride each time he stepped onto the field. He wore the jersey with honour, determination and a smile that will never be forgotten.”
Tyrone GAA posted: “Coiste Chontae Thír Eoghain is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Odhran McGirr.
“A proud member of Errigal Ciaran, Odhrán had a deep love for sport and embraced life with kindness, energy and joy. A caring child and a wonderful big brother to Ruairí and Saoirse, he showed extraordinary courage, strength and positivity beyond his years in the face of an unimaginably difficult illness.”
“Only a few weeks ago, he led the Tyrone Senior Footballers onto the field in Dún Geanainn – a moment of immense pride that will live long in the memory of all those in attendance.”
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