Yesterday was a sad reminder of a huge loss to the GAA, with it being the 20th anniversary of the passing of Tyrone footballer Cormac McAnallen.
Passing suddenly at the age of just 24, the Eglish St Patrick's clubman had started fullback in the county's first ever All-Ireland triumph the previous year. He had also captained the county on a number of occasions the following season.
He was widely regarded as one of the most talented Tyrone had ever produced and was expected to have a long career at inter-county level.
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Mickey Harte pays brilliant tribute to Cormac McAnallen
Mickey Harte is someone who knew Cormac McAnallen incredibly well.
Not only did he manage him at senior level, but he also coached him at the minor and U21 grades. The defender would captain Tyrone to All-Ireland success at both of those levels.
Speaking after Derry's loss to Dublin last night, he paid a wonderful tribute to Cormac McAnallen on the 20th anniversary of his passing.
It is a day we will never forget.
I have often wondered how Cormac could’ve developed into, what he would have been like. We knew he was special and he had achieved so much in his short life and I fear we all missed what he could’ve become.
I think he could’ve become one of the best players ever to play the game...
I had great time for the man from 17 on the first minor team of ‘97 that didn’t win, ‘98 yes and the two 21′s. I had a wee goal for him and I think he would’ve done it – I think he would’ve been the only person to have lift all three things.
He had the first two got and maybe they are the hardest to get. I think he would’ve got the three of them.
He is such a loss to his family and the whole GAA world, particularly in Tyrone.
A lovely tribute, one that points to just how talented of a footballer Cormac McAnallen was.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
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