CORK hurling legend Ger Fitzgerald has passed away aged 60 following a battle with illness.
The beloved Midleton clubman died on Tuesday, prompting a deluge of tributes on social media.
Fitzgerald won the Liam McCarthy with the Rebels on two occasions, in 1986 and 1990.
And the captain of the latter, Tomas Mulcahy, led the heartbreaking tributes in honour of his former teammate.
He said: “Very sad news to hear this morning that our colleague and former hurling star Ger Fitzgerald has passed away
“What a sad loss to his family and all the Cork Gaa community
“May you rest in peace Ger”
He followed this up with a team photo from the 1986 team, saying: “It’s only when something sad happens do we really understand what guys have done and achieved.
“He loved his club and colleagues so much.”
In addition to his exploits with Cork – which also included skippering them to a Munster title in 1992 – he was a decorated icon of Midleton.
At 19, he scored 1-2 as the club won a Cork hurling title in 1983, and added three more over the course of his career.
And when he turned to coaching, he managed Midleton to another county championship in 2021.
Mulcahy’s tribute inspired many others to offer their condolences.
Michael Duignan tweeted: “Very sorry to hear that news Tomas. Ger was a lovely fella. May he Rest in Peace.”
Clare hurling icon Anthony Daly posted: “Jesus Mull that’s awful. What a powerful forward Ger was.
“RIP to Ger’s family and all in Midleton & Cork GAA.
Padraig O Maolchathaigh posted: “Very sad to hear @GerardFitzG passed away overnight.
“Fought a brave battle, what a warrior, a gentleman, a magpie at heart. May he Rest In Peace.”
Colm said: “Ah very sad news. Part of a fabulous forward line in the 80s. And Cloyne connections too. RIP Ger.”
Declan Drake posted: “Sad news this am. Another star of a bygone era gone from us. Fantastic player to watch.
“Thoughts with the Fitzgerald family and his former club mates @MidletonGaa and @OfficialCorkGAA”
