One of Galway's most famous GAA families is in mourning following the death of former Sarsfields All-Ireland club winner Peter Cooney from cancer.
The 49-year-old, younger brother of All-Stars Jimmy and Joe, had raised almost €90,000 to help other cancer sufferers since his own diagnosis in March 2017.
A corner-forward with a sharp eye for goal, he won five Galway SHC titles and two All-Ireland club crowns in a golden era for the Sarsfields club which was backboned by his brothers Jimmy, Pakie, Michael, Joe and Brendan.
The youngest in a family of 15, Peter Cooney also won an All-Ireland U-21 title when Galway defeated Offaly in the 1991 final, while in recent years he served as selector and coach in the club.
He was a selector with Sarsfields this year while also helping to raise almost €90,000 for the East Galway and Midlands Cancer Support group in Ballinasloe.
"He was an inspiration for other people touched by cancer and was always available to give advice and support to others going through cancer treatment," said Sarsfields club delegate Tommy Fox. "He never complained and bore his own illness with dignity and bravery and he will be dearly missed around the playing fields of Bullaun and New Inn but the club's loss is nothing compared to the loss to his family.
"His death has led to widespread sadness, not just in the hurling fraternity but in the wider community. The Sarsfields club wishes to extend its deepest sympathy to his family," he added.
Peter Cooney is survived by his wife Emer and sons Oisín (18), Cormac (13) and Éanna (12), his mother Nora, nine sisters and five brothers and his extended family and friends.