The GAA community in Antrim and staff of the Saffron Gael were deeply shocked and saddened at the news of the sudden death of Offaly football manager, Liam Kearns at the weekend.
Kearns, who lived in Limerick but was originally from Kerry with whom he won an All-Ireland minor title in 1980, has been one of the highest profile football managers over the last two decades, having taken charge of Limerick, Laois and Tipperary before replacing John Maughan in Offaly last autumn.
Liam Kearns was at Corrigan Park back on the 29th of January where he was in charge of Offaly when they defeated Antrim in the first round of the Allianz Football League and was well thought of and respected in GAA circles.
Antrim suffered a 0-12 to 2-12 defeat to Offaly that day and Kearns went on to lead them to a second win over Ulster opposition when they defeated Fermanagh in Tullamore in the second round of the league.
In a statement confirming the news Offaly GAA said it is “devastated to learn of the sudden passing this evening of our senior football manager, Liam Kearns. In his short period of time as manager of the senior footballers, Liam made a hugely positive impact and he was extremely well respected by everyone associated with Offaly GAA.
Offaly GAA extend sent deepest sympathies to his wife Angela and daughters Rachel & Laura and we at the Saffron Gael extend that sympathy
May he rest in peace.
