Fergal McCann: Former Tyrone gaelic football trainer dies after long illness

Former Tyrone gaelic football trainer Fergal McCann has died after a long illness at the age of 47.

The Augher man was part of Mickey Harte's management team when the Red Hand County clinched the All-Ireland Football title in 2005 and 2008.

McCann worked as a schools coach for Tyrone GAA but was best known for his key role with Harte's squad.

His stint with the Red Hands included helping guide them to three Ulster Championship titles.

A Tyrone GAA statement extended "sincere sympathy to to Fergal's wife Roisin, daughters, Aine and Aoife, his sister Lisa and his mother Maura".

Tyrone county chairperson Michael Kerr added that a "giant of the GAA in Tyrone has gone to his eternal reward".

"For one so young to have achieved so much is testament to a great Gael," added the Tyrone GAA official.

"Fergal was a true gentleman in life even in the white hot heat of championship battles.

"A very private person, the manner in which he bore his illness over the last twelve months marks the magnitude of the man.

"His legacy is not alone the two All-Ireland winning teams but the influence he had on all those who had the privilege to be coached and managed by him, in clubs and schools.

"While our loss is massive, it is insignificant compared to that of his family and close friends."