Former Ireland Under-21 international and Reading FC Academy manager Eamonn Dolan sadly passed away yesterday aged 48 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Dolan was instrumental in the development of Shane Long and Kevin Doyle, among a multitude of others, and both Irish strikers tweeted their sympathy:
Such an influential man in my career, & has always been a true friend. Still finding it hard to believe.
Rest in peace Eamonn— Shane Long (@ShaneLong7) June 21, 2016
Rest in peace Eamonn,we will all be forever grateful https://t.co/pH1I15vpAQ
— Kevin Doyle (@KevinDoyle1983) June 21, 2016
FAI CEO John Delaney said of Dolan:
Eamonn Dolan was a real gentleman and fought a courageous battle against cancer in recent years. It is such sad news to hear of his passing.
I have great memories of meeting Eamonn many times at games during his time with Reading. He was just a brilliant person and very engaging. He contributed greatly to the development of many talented Irish players and was very proud of being from Ireland.
The sympathies of all in Irish football go to Eamonn’s family, his brother Patrick in particular, and his many friends in the game who will be very upset at his untimely death.
We will rightly pay tribute to Eamonn at our next home international game. May he rest in peace.
Reading also released a heartfelt statement which waxed lyrical about his involvement in all aspects of the club:
His energy for football was infectious. His enthusiasm for the sport we all love was evident in his every compelling word he uttered. The pride in his work was enviable. And each young player who Eamonn carefully nurtured through our Academy ranks and into professional football will today stand tall as testament to one great man’s total dedication and unassuming but single-minded commitment to his job. Eamonn led by shining example. And most notably, his love for this club was overwhelming.
That love was mutual. Everyone who worked with him at Reading respected and admired a man who will be desperately missed by staff, managers, coaches and players – both past and present throughout his 12 years as a Royal.
Reading have opened a book of condolences for Dolan at the main reception of the Madjeski Stadium.
