Tributes have poured in following news of the passing of ‘living legend’ Frankie Wilson after a long battle with illness.
Wilson, 52, was current manager of Banbridge Town football club and he had also managed the Northern Ireland U18 Schoolboys side.
The St Pat’s, Knock schoolteacher had been in charge of Sport & Leisure Swifts, Lurgan Celtic and Bangor over the years. As a player Wilson was a defender for Cliftonville, Carrick Rangers, Ballyclare Comrades, Omagh Town and Bangor, representing all clubs with distinction.
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The Hannahstown man was also a former Antrim GAA star and was only recently made a Hall of Fame recipient at the Lámh Dhearg CLG club. Wilson also played for the Antrim Masters team.
Gerard Lawlor, NIFL Chief Executive said, “Frankie was a much loved and respected figure in the Irish League for many years as a player and a manager. His courage and fighting spirit in recent months was reflective of how he played and enjoyed the game on the pitch.
“Our thoughts are with the Wilson family circle and everyone connected with Banbridge Town Football Club at this sad time.”
One of his former clubs Bangor FC tweeted: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Frankie Wilson. Frankie joined Bangor as a player in 2001 & returned to the Club as manager in 2010, guiding the Seasiders to S&S Cup glory. We send our condolences to Frankie’s family & friends at this sad time.”
Lurgan Celtic added: “It is with an extremely heavy heart that we learned today of the passing of Frankie Wilson.
“Frankie was part of our management set-up for several years before returning as manager. We extend heartfelt condolences to the family at this testing time.Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam!”
Crewe United said: “We are very sad to learn this morning of the passing of our former player and friend, Frankie Wilson. A superb sports person and footballer, but an even better man. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. Rest in Peace Frankie.”
Wilson played at senior level for Antrim in the 1990s and early 2000s and was man of the match when the Saffrons faced reigning All-Ireland champions Donegal in Ballybofey in 1993. Antrim lost the game but Wilson scored four points in an incredible display.
Antrim GAA posted: “We send our heartfelt condolences on the sad news that former Antrim Gael Frankie Wilson has sadly passed away after a great battle with illness.
“Deepest sympathy to his family and friends from all of us and everyone throughout the county. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
GAA hero and pundit Joe Brolly also took to social media to share his devastation at the loss.
“Gutted at the death of Frankie Wilson. An incredible sportsman, he played Irish league and Gaelic football at the top level. Coached the NI u18s & every school team at St Pat’s Knock where he was a living legend. A wonderful human being. So full of life.”
Bredagh GAC added: “Frankie provided so much support & enriched the lives of our young people in Bredagh GAC. We will always be grateful. Sending our deepest condolences to the Wilson family, friends and all at OLSPCK. RIP.”
The Antrim Masters account shared: “Antrim Master and gentleman Frankie Wilson passed away this morning after a great fight against his illness. Frankie had a smile for everyone and was a great footballer that would have graced any county team. Deepest sympathy to his family and friends from all of us past and present... Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”
Antrim goalkeeper Chris Kerr also took to Twitter to say: “Terribly sad news. Super fella. Thinking of his family, and friends & all connected with Frankie.”
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