Crossmaglen star Caolan Finnegan was given one last lap of honour around his club grounds as he was laid to rest on Monday morning.
The 20-year-old passed away on Friday, a year after being diagnosed with brain cancer. His team mates carried him on a final lap of his club Crossmaglen Rangers’ ground ahead of his funeral at St Patrick’s Church in the village.
Guards of honour were formed as mourners, many dressed in team colours at the family’s request, gathered to pay to their respects to the much-loved Armagh native.
Symbols of the young star’s life were displayed on the alter next to a photo of Caolan wearing his GAA jersey.
Among the hundreds of tributes paid, Caolan was described as “a true warrior through his biggest fight of all”.
A fitting tribute to young Caolan Finnegan as his teammates carry him on a final lap of his club gaelic ground in Crossmaglen. 💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤
Posted by Damien Quinn on Monday 26 August 2024
Hundreds of mourners were told about his love for sport, especially the GAA, his family, and his dog Winnie.
Parish Priest Father Dermot Maloney said: “The Sam Maguire paid a visit to Caolan’s house on two occasions since the All-Ireland which gave him a great lift at a very difficult time.”
Thanking all those involved in the service he added: “Before we go our separate ways, let us take leave of Caolan. May our farewell express our affection for him. May it ease our sadness and strengthen our hope. One day we shall joyfully greet him again when the love of Christ, which conquers all things, destroys even death itself.”
‘Stringer’ as he was also known was a star for Cross’ famed senior team as well as lining out for Armagh through every underage grade.”
Following his death a club spokesperson said: “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 and amber. Forever in our hearts.”
Following the county’s All-Ireland success last month, manager Kieran McGeeney said were it not for his illness, Caolan would’ve been part of this year’s panel.
GAA President Jarlath Burns was among those to attend Monday morning’s Mass.
A fundraiser called ‘Care for Caolan’ launched last year exceeded a target of £310,000 to help with the costs of treatment in Germany.
Over the weekend tributes have poured in from across the country, with Caolan remembered as an ‘inspiration’ to many.
He is sadly missed by his parents, Liam and Janette, his siblings, his girlfriend Emily, and extended family and friends.
An online book of condolence is now open for the young GAA player who tragically lost his life.
