President leads tributes to Páidí Ó Sé

Funeral arrangements have been announced for former Kerry footballer and manager Páidí Ó Sé who died suddenly at his home in Árd a Bhóthair yesterday.

The eight times All-Ireland winner is suspected to have suffered a heart attack.

His requiem Mass will be held at Ventry church on Tuesday at 12 noon, followed by burial at Reilig Caitlíona.

The news of Páidí Ó Sé's death came as a great shock to the football world and in particular to those who played under him as manager of two winning Kerry teams. President Michael D Higgins led the tributes to the former Kerry player who passed away at the age of 57.

Mr Higgins said: "Páidi Ó Sé had a reputation that went far beyond his great achievements in sport and far beyond the boundaries of his own beloved country.

"It was a great contribution and I send my sympathies to him and his family and all those related to him."

Minister for Sports Michael Ring described it as a sad day for Ireland, the GAA, for Kerry and for Irish culture.

The minister said: "Páidí Ó Sé was a legend in so many ways. As a footballer, as a manager, and as an exponent of Irish language and culture, Páidí had few rivals. "

Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin described him as a GAA giant and gentleman.

Mr Martin said: "This is a huge loss for Páidí's family and friends in Kerry, Clare and across the country.

"When it came to football Páidí had an extraordinary talent. I personally have great memories of stirring Cork-Kerry clashes through the years. He was an iconic figure and he personified that spirit of competitive rivalry that is the hallmark of the GAA.

"Páidí was also a very warm hearted person and he made enduring friendships in sport, politics and business."

Fine Gael Kerry TD Brendan Griffin said he had been saddened at the untimely passing of the former footballer.

He said: "Páidí really was a true legend of the game and he was someone of great charisma, both on and off the field.

"Like so many more of my generation, Páidí was a childhood hero. The Dingle peninsula, the county of Kerry and the country is in mourning. My sympathy is with those Páidí leaves behind, especially his wife and children. He will be sorely missed."

Páidí is survived by his wife, Máire, daughters Neasa and Siún, son Pádraig Óg, and his brother Tomás.