Christopher Gavin from Westport, Co Mayo, died at Mayo University Hospital earlier this week.
Christopher, along with his twin brother, Michael, were players for Westport GAA in Co Mayo.
Coaches and teammates from his GAA club paid tribute to Mr Gavin in a statement, describing him as a “dedicated teammate” and a “true friend to so many”.
“Our town of Westport, its schools and our GAA community woke today to the heartbreaking news that Christopher Gavin, one of our current GAA minor players, a dedicated teammate and a true friend to so many had passed away while in Mayo General Hospital early this morning,” they wrote.
“Chris’s twin brother, Michael, is also a member of our minor squad, with both players committed to their teams and teammates over their many years at our club.
“All of our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with the Gavin family at this tragic time. As the twins’ coaches, we are utterly lost for words to express how sad our whole GAA community is feeling right now for this immense loss,” they added.
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Mr Gavin’s GAA club extended their “heartfelt condolences” to his parents, two sisters and his “inseparable twin brother” Michael.
His coaches and teammates said that Christopher’s “winning number 15 jersey” will be retired for the rest of the season, as a mark of respect to him and his family, and to ensure “Chris will be remembered as part of their squad at every game by his team and club”.
“Chris lined out with his team against Achill last week, where he played with the number 15 jersey. Chris’s team came away with a win that day, and it is nice to know that his last game representing his club was a happy memory for him.
“We have had opportunities in the past to discuss with Chris’ teammates about getting over the loss of a game, how we support each other, and how we pick each other up and go again.
“Chris’ teammates and our GAA community now take up that same challenge by supporting the Gavin family during these very sad days.
“The devastating loss of such a great son, brother, friend and teammate will need us all to surround Chris’ family with our support and love in the weeks and months ahead,” they added.
Mr Gavin is survived by his heartbroken parents, Michael and Karen, twin brother Michael, and sisters Cathy and Emma.
His funeral mass will be held at 11am on Saturday, May 3, in St Mary’s Church in Westport, with the funeral proceeding to Aughavale Cemetery.
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