Ollie Horgan - a 'true pillar' of Irish football - has died aged 57

Highly regarded League of Ireland manager and coach Ollie Horgan has died, aged 57, after a short illness.

Horgan stepped away from his work as assistant manager with Galway United just three weeks ago. A Salthill native, he served as assistant to John Caulfield at Galway since 2023.

Having began his management career with Donegal club Fanad United, Horgan built his League of Ireland reputation at Finn Harps, the club he managed from 2013 to 2022.

He succesfully kept the club in the League of Ireland top tier for much of that spell and also enjoyed two promotion-winning campaigns in the First Division.

The wild-haired, colourful figure became one of the best-known, most admired figures in the league.

A PE teacher, he worked for many years at St Eunan's College in Letterkenny.

As tributes pour in from around the Irish football community, Fanad United expressed the club's devastation at the news.

"Like the whole football community we were devastated to hear of the passing of our former player and manager Ollie Horgan today. A true football man who was respected throughout the country."

Dundalk FC announced the club will host a book of condolences at Oriel Park tomorrow night ahead of their First Division meeting with Kerry.

"We at Dundalk FC are deeply saddened by the passing of Ollie Horgan, a true pillar of the League of Ireland football community.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. His contributions and achievements have left a lasting legacy, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him."

Cork City expressed sadness at the loss of a "a highly respected figure throughout Irish football".

"Ollie will be truly missed by everyone across the League of Ireland community."

Shelbourne said Horgan's "deep passion for football left a lasting impact across the League of Ireland".

Bohemians rememered a "League of Ireland legend", whose "presence and passion will be so sorely missed by all".

Bray Wanderers saluted a "stalwart of the League of Ireland football community". Longford Town said "our league has lost a true legend in Ollie".

Wexford remembered a "League of Ireland great", a "passionate sideline presence and man of huge talent".

St Patrick's Athletic said "Ollie contributed hugely to football in Ireland and was a hugely popular figure throughout our league."

While Sligo Rovers paid tribute to a coach "whose passion, dedication, and commitment to football left a lasting impact. His knowledge and determination brought out the best in his teams.

"Above all, Ollie will be remembered as a man of integrity who gave his all to Irish football."

This story will be updated.

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