Naomh Séamas Clg community was rocked by the untimely passing of Darren O’Neill, better known to most as just “Horse”. At 41 Darren had achieved so much both playing and coaching at Aldergrove as well as a period with St Malachys.
Darren played with the club since he was a young lad and was a vital member of the squad that brought the club back to Division 1 and Senior Championship level, winning Division 2 and 3 titles along the way. Mostly positioned on the edge of the square, he had an eye for goal and relished the physical tussle, few defenders got the better of Horse. He always gave his all on the pitch, his focus and determination was infectious. You always had to keep your wits about you any time Horse was nearby in training or in the changing room as he was always plotting and scheming a prank of some description. He loved a laugh but took his football very seriously, he had a deep understanding and passion for the game as anyone who played alongside him would testify.
This understanding of the game was clear for everyone to see as he took over coaching our Senior ladies about 18 months ago and went from success to success building a bond with the girls that was to be unbreakable. Last year alongside his fellow coach Amy McCarthy, he brought the ladies back to Division 1 with a Division 2 title and this was soon to be followed by the Junior Championship. The selfless type of man he was, saw him travel 3 times a week from Coleraine to Aldergrove to coach the ladies and he never missed and always worked hard to get the best from them.
Darren will be sorely missed by our club and community but will always be remembered fondly. Our condolences are with Darren’s wife and family at this time.
