Darragh Nelson- RIP

Dublin GAA are deeply saddened by the passing of former Dublin footballer & Under 20 football selector Darragh Nelson.

Darragh was a member of the All-Ireland-winning Dublin Senior Football panel in 2011 and 2013, also winning two Leinster Championships, two National Football Leagues and Leinster and All-Ireland titles at U21 level in 2010.

He also captained his club, Ballyboden St Endas, to Dublin, Leinster and All-Ireland success in 2015/16 alongside his Dublin SFC titles with ‘Boden in 2009 and 2019.

"All in Dublin GAA are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Darragh Nelson", says Dublin County Board Chairman Ken O'Sullivan.

"Darragh was an outstanding footballer and won All-Ireland honours with both his Club, Ballyboden St Enda’s, and with Dublin.

"Indeed, he was Club Captain when leading Ballyboden to their All-Ireland Club title in 2016 and won Senior Intercounty titles with Dublin in 2011 and 2013.

"Darragh was also an outstanding person, who always put the team first and always did his best to help those around him and this year he was an integral part of the U20 Dublin Football backroom team.  

"On behalf of Dublin GAA, we send our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to his wife Lauren, his daughters Sophia and Molly, his wider family, friends and former teammates and all in his Club, Ballyboden St Endas at this sad time."

After finishing playing, Darragh moved into a coaching role with Dublin’s underage teams, joining Jonny Cooper’s Dublin U20 football backroom team last season.

“No tribute could ever do Darragh justice”, says Jonny.

“Having him as a key part of the Dublin U20s coaching team was truly inspiring. Despite his own significant health challenges and his family life, he continued to show up for the players and coaches with extraordinary commitment and care.”

“Having been privileged to call him a teammate during our U21 and Senior days, Darragh was a player and person we all aspired to be like. Selfless, a leader, fun and character come to mind. I feel most fortunate to have called him a friend.”

“To Lauren, Molly, Sophia, Susan, John, Emma, Kate and all his family, please know that the example Darragh set and the impact he had on me and us all will continue to shine brightly.”

A minute's silence will be held before the PTSB Dublin Senior 1 Football Final on 18th October at Parnell Park to remember Darragh.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.