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 (Belfast) 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.
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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