Padraig Rafferty, a schoolboy Gaelic football star who went to St Joseph & St James' Primary School in Poyntzpass, Co Armagh, sadly died after a long cancer battle

A schoolboy Gaelic football star has tragically died after a long cancer battle with tributes telling of the "joy he brought" on the pitch.

Padraig Rafferty, a popular pupil at St Joseph & St James' Primary School in Poyntzpass, Co Armagh, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2023, and he sadly passed away this week.

It has led to an outpouring of grief and support for Padraig's family has been expressed by the local community following the sad news.

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Padraig played football at underage level for the Gaelic football team Redmond O'Hanlon's GAC, and they said his loss was a "tragedy beyond words."

In a statement on social media, the club said: "It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of our underage player, Padraig Rafferty, this morning. The loss of Padraig is a tragedy beyond words, and our entire community is mourning the loss of one of our own.

"Padraig was a proud young footballer who wore the Redmond O'Hanlon's jersey with great spirit, and we will always remember the dedication and joy he brought to the pitch.

"As a mark of respect to Padraig, all club activities--including all training sessions, matches, and meetings across all age groups--are suspended until further notice.

"During this unimaginably difficult time, we wrap our arms around his father John, his mother Lorraine, and his sisters Grace and Niamh, along with their extended family and friends. We stand beside you in your grief. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam og."

Crossmaglen Rangers GAC also paid tribute to the young footballer, reported the Irish Mirror. It said: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of Padraig Rafferty, underage player Redmond O'Hanlons GAC Poyntzpass.

"To Padraig's Mammy & Daddy, Lorraine & John, Sisters, Grace & Niamh, the extended Rafferty family and our fellow Gaels, Redmond O'Hanlon's, we are truly sorry for your enormous loss of Padraig. We are thinking of you all. Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam."

And local Sinn Fein councillor, Oonagh Magennis, added: "No words. Rest easy, wee angel. Sincere condolences to John, Lorraine, Grace and Niamh, and to Padraig's grandparents Paddy and Marie Rafferty and the wider family. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam og."