TRIBUTES have been pouring in for Donegal 1992 hero James McHugh, following his tragic loss of life.
James died in yesterday afternoon’s road traffic collision in Co Cavan, aged 62.
He is was a former Donegal All-Ireland winning footballer from Bavin, Kilcar.
His wife Noreen was seriously injured in the collision and was airlifted to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.
James McHugh died in a crash in Cavan yesterday.
Today (Tuesday), Donegal Dail TD Pat the Cope Gallagher is one of many to pay tributes to James.
Deputy Gallagher said: “James McHugh was a gifted sportsman and dedicated husband and father.
“It was with profound sadness and deep shock that we all learned of the death of James as a result of a tragic road accident in Cavan.
“James was an extremely talented and skilled footballer for his native Kilcar GAA Club, as well as being a key part of the 1992 Donegal All Ireland winning team.
“James brought total commitment and energy to the game, skill he had in abundance and he never pulled back from the rough and tumble of the tackle whether that was a club or county match.
“He was always the professional sportsman. James was a winner of a 1992 All Star, highlighting the importance of the role he played in the successful 1992 victory.
“He was an exceptionally proud Kilcar man, coming from a family that gave so much to the GAA in south-west Donegal. James was a dedicated father and family man.
“James is predeceased by his father Jim and mother Kathleen.”
Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher.
Deputy Gallagher added: “We all wish his wife Noreen a speedy and full recovery. The McHugh and O’donnell families need our support and prayers at this extremely difficult time for them all.
“I wish to convey my deepest sympathies to his wife Noreen, son Eoin, daughter Emma, brothers Martin and Enda, sisters Mary and Catherine, and his nephews and nieces.
The annals of history and sport will forever record the contributions of James McHugh to the sporting history of Kilcar and Donegal football. Ar dhéis lámh Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”