Hurler Billy Quinn, father of soccer player Niall, dies at 80

The death has taken place at the age of 80, of former Tipperary hurler Billy Quinn.

From Thurles, he won two All-Ireland minor hurling medals in 1952 and 1953 and captained the latter side in the final against Dublin.

He graduated to the county seniors and in 1954 made a huge impact in the NHL final, scoring three goals from full forward despite being marked by Kilkenny’s legendary fullback, Jim “Diamond” Hayden.

Tipperary won the match 3-10 to 1-4.

Billy Quinn’s senior intercounty career was interrupted when he emigrated to London for three years. On his return, he settled in Dublin. There he played for the Faughs club and also lined out for his county of residence.

His son Niall hurled for Dublin in the 1983 All-Ireland minor final before taking up a career in professional soccer, which would see him play 92 times for the Republic of Ireland.

In later years Billy Quinn moved back to Tipperary and was living in Ballinure at the time of his passing.

Tipperary GAA county board chairman Michael Bourke paid tribute to him, saying: “Men of the quality and calibre of Billy Quinn are unique in the GAA.”