Fred Cogley, the legendary RTE broadcaster, journalist, and commentator, has passed away at the age of 82.
RTE announced his passing on the nine o'clock news, and charted his fabulous career with this obituary, describing him as "the voice of a generation synonymous with sporting success".
Former RTÉ broadcaster and Head of Sport Fred Cogley has died aged 82 #RTEsport pic.twitter.com/xULuQA0E7U
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) June 14, 2017
Beginning as a freelance journalist, Fred Cogley joined RTE in 1950, and rose to become the state broadcaster's Head of Sport. Ryle Nugent, RTE's current Head of Sport, paid tribute to his former colleague:
Fred Cogley RIP. Was so generous with his time and encouragement. Gentleman to his toes. Sound track to a generation of TV rugby @RTEsport
— Ryle Nugent (@ryle_nugent) June 14, 2017
Like Nugent, Cogley was best known as a rugby commentator, having worked a remarkable 49 rugby seasons. Countless tributes to Cogley were posted online.
Irish sports journalism has lost a giant, and a gent, with very sad passing of Fred Cogley. RIP.
— Philip Quinn (@Quinner61) June 14, 2017
Our condolences to the family of Fred Cogley, who sadly passed away today.
A true Irish rugby gentleman who will be missed.
RIP.— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) June 14, 2017
Really liked Fred Cogley. He was the voice of Rugby for so long on RTÉ. Passion and insight in equal measure. A sad passing.
— Brian Strahan (@StrahanBrian) June 14, 2017
So sad to hear of passing of @RTEsport legend Fred Cogley. RIP
— Dee Forbes (@deeforbes_dee) June 14, 2017
Very sorry to hear of #FredCogley's passing. Those of us in @RTEsport now are the custodians of what he and others built proudly #rip
— Damien O'Meara (@damien_omeara) June 14, 2017
RIP.
