TTM Tribute To Killyclogher Footballer John Rafferty

Friday 28.10.2022

Club

It was with great sadness that we heard the news this morning of the passing of Killyclogher senior footballer John Rafferty following a road traffic collision on Thursday evening. The news of his death stunned his family and friends, the people of Killyclogher and beyond and the wider GAA community. All of us involved in Teamtalkmag wish to express our deepest sympathies to Felix, Roisin, Clare and Michael and the wider family circle as well as his many friends and team mates.

John was a talented footballer, a tidy defender and a fierce competitor on the field of play but he was much more than that. He was a son, a brother, a friend and a loyal team mate. From an early age he showed great prowess in Gaelic Games and achieved considerable success on the field of play including leading his club to a county minor title back in 2019. His post match speech that day showed maturity beyond his years. He took great pride in making the club senior team and being recognised as a county under 20 player.

In his short life he achieved many things both on the sporting field and off it. He led by example competing in every game with the same energy, enthusiasm and commitment that he expected from his team mates. Those who trained and played with him knew his worth and those who played against him appreciated the tenacity he brought to the contest.

Just over two weeks ago he was part of the Killyclogher team that finished top of Division One before pushing Trillick all the way to extra time in the league final. At the end he stood shoulder to shoulder with his team mates, drenched to the skin, dressed in the blue of his beloved Killyclogher. Little  did we realise that would be his final game for the club.

May John rest in peace.