Former Cork and Sarsfields star Ray Ryan dies unexpectedly

A huge loss to the Cork hurling family.

He won four Cork SHC titles with Sarsfields and went on the coach within the club.

A member of An Garda Síochána, Ryan was first called into the Cork squad in 2008 after the main panel went on strike after a dispute with manager Gerald McCarthy.

Ryan went on to captain the Rebels in 2009 and made his championship debut in the Munster semi-final win over Limerick in 2008.

Sars paid tribute to Ryan on social media: "It is with heavy hearts that we at Sarsfields Hurling Club must share the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of our minor manager and club stalwart, Ray Ryan. His loss has left an immense void not only within our club, but also within Glanmire Football Club and the wider Glanmire community.

"Our deepest condolences go out to Aisling, his beautiful children, the Ryan family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Ray's unwavering dedication and passion for the game, as well as his kindness and commitment to our club will forever be remembered."

A tribute was also put out on RIP.ie: "Ray (An Garda Síochána, Sarsfield’s Hurling Club, and Glanmire Football Club), dearly beloved husband of Aishling (née Foley), adored dad of McKenna, Rory, and Elliot. Much loved son of Marian and Paddy, and loving brother of Pat, Trevor, and Ken.

"Deeply missed by his heartbroken wife and children, parents, brothers, father-in-law Bill, mother-in-law Catherine and her partner Tim, sisters-in-law Róisín, Tricia, Laura, and Niamh, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family, work colleagues, teammates, the wider GAA community, and a large circle of friends."