Graiguecullen GAA club have issued a heartfelt statement in support of club member Danny O’Reilly, who was assaulted in Carlow in the early hours of Monday morning and is currently in hospital recovering with serious head injuries.
O’Reilly (21) came on as a sub for Laois in the Allianz Football League Division 4 final on Saturday in Croke Park.
The popular young man, who is fondly known by the nickname ‘Dicey’ has been playing for the Laois seniors for the last couple of years and featured throughout this season’s league campaign. He has represented club and county at all levels from underage to senior.
He was attacked and knocked unconscious while waiting for a taxi at 1am on Monday morning after being out socialising with friends and family in Carlow on Easter Sunday night. Gardai are following a definite line of inquiry.
“I celebrated with him in Croke Park on Saturday,” said Graiguecullen GAA PRO Paul Dargan, who was taking photos in Croke Park on Saturday for Laois GAA.
“We see himself and his partner Jade as two young kids with their whole lives ahead of them. They are hugely involved in Graiguecullen – Jade plays with our senior ladies team and only came back playing recently after having a baby last year.
“Danny’s father coaches in the club, his brother plays – his mother and father were in the clubhouse on Saturday night after the Laois game celebrating the win in Croke Park earlier that day. His family are being incredibly strong at the moment.”
O’Reilly remains in a serious but stable condition in St Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny. He has suffered a double fracture to the skull as well as reported swelling and bleeding on the brain. As in all incidents of this nature, the first 72 hours are crucial.
Graiguecullen GAA club also issued a statement on social media this afternoon.
“As a club we are heartbroken and devastated with the news we received yesterday,” it said. “Our thoughts and love are solely with Daniel and all his family right now.
“The matter is under investigation so please respect the authorities.
“Direct your thoughts and comments offline rather than online of love and support for Daniel, Jade and all the O’Reilly family as we all unite together as one family now in support.
“We love you Dicey.”
SEE ALSO – Gardai following definite line of inquiry in case of Laois footballer assaulted in Carlow
