Tributes have been paid to Sean McCashin, a referee for Down LGFA and Down GAA’s Ulster Council Delegate, following his passing over the weekend.

The Ballykinlar clubman held a range of roles throughout a lifetime of service to the association. He was a former chairman of his club as well as the current PRO of the East Down committee and the assistant secretary of the LGFA.

In a statement, the Down county board thanked Sean for the roles he took on adding “we are better for having had him amongst us”.

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“Coiste Chontae an Dúin and the family that is Down GAA are in mourning as we learned of the sudden death of our esteemed friend and colleague Sean McCashin,” the statement read.

“Sean was our Ulster Council Delegate, PRO of the East Down Committee, he was a Referee and he was the assistant secretary of the Down County Committee of the LGFA. Most Important though he was husband to Annette and a much loved father, grandfather and brother. To his wife and family we offer our deepest and heartfelt sympathy.

“Sean McCashin was one of those people who just wanted to serve the GAA to the very best of his abilities, for him Ballykinlar and Down were his outlet in life and he wanted only to be involved, no task was ever too small for Seán, and once asked to take on any role or responsibility, you could be sure that Sean would deliver.

“We are lucky that there are people who only want to give their all for our Association and Sean McCashin was one such person, he gave of his time willingly to any task and in doing so he helped make a difference for those whom he encountered.

“We in Down GAA, will miss him, we were lucky to have had him in our ranks and we know that he made a difference to many in the simple things that he did, for Seán McCashin it was never about the plaudits, it was about doing the wee things and doing them right, helping someone on the way and having the craic with people that he met in the world that he loved, the world of the GAA.

“We say thank you for Sean McCashin and the role that he played within our Association, we are the better for having had him amongst us. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

In another tribute, Down LGFA added: “It is with great sadness we woke to the news of Sean McCashin’s sudden passing.

“Sean’s life was steeped in the GAA and over the past few years we were lucky to have him become involved in Down LGFA. Sean had refereed with us for a few years before last year coming on board as Down LGFA Fixtures Secretary.

“Over the past year, Sean brought the same enthusiasm, determination and dedication he brought to all the roles he served in his GAA life.

“Sean was a proud Down man but more importantly a prouder Ballykilner man. Sean was a true Gael and along with members all across Down, we thank him for his service to the county and the clubs within it. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Annette and his family at this sad time. Mary Queen of Gaels pray for him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Ballykinlar GAC also paid tribute Sean, writing: “It is with immense sadness that we learn of the sudden passing of our former chairman and current referee, Sean McCashin.

“A lifelong Gael who served his club and county tirelessly, and who made such substantial contribution to both the GAA and LGFA. We ask you all to remember his wife Annette and all his family and friends in your prayers over the coming days. Our Lady Queen of the Gael pray for him.Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Many clubs also took to social media to pay their respects to Sean. Burren GAA wrote: “It is with great sadness we woke to the news of Sean McCashin’s sudden passing. Our sincerest condolences; our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Annette and his family at this very sad time.

“Sean’s life was steeped in the GAA and over the past few years we were lucky to have him become involved in Down LGFA. Sean had refereed many games for our club and he was always a professional and friendly finding a great balance to ensure games were played fairly. May Sean Rest in Peace. Mary Queen of Gaels pray for him.”

Kilcoo added: “Eoghan Rua Cill Chua are saddened to hear of the passing of Sean. A wonderful Gael and administrator for our county, Sean will be forever remembered for what he done for Gaelic games in this county.

"We sympathise with his family at this sad time and offer our sincere condolences. May he rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”

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