Death of Thomas Breslin, Ardara's first ever minor winning captain

Thomas Breslin with another Ardara native, Donegal's 1992 All-Ireland winning captain Anthony Molloy

placeholder image — Thomas Breslin with another Ardara native, Donegal's 1992 All-Ireland winning captain Anthony Molloy

A wake to celebrate Thomas's life will take place in Dublin's Harcourt hotel this Thursday from 7.30pm and in Ardara on Friday week, July 8

The community of Ardara GAA Club were saddened to hear of the death of one of their former playing members on Monday last, Thomas 'The Diamond' Breslin.

His death took place in Dublin, where he had lived for many years. He made history by captaining Ardara to their first minor championship in 1952.

In a Facebook post, the Ardara club paid a tribute: "Club members were saddened to hear of the news this morning of the death of Thomas "The Diamond" Breslin in Dublin. Thomas captained the first Ardara team to win the Minor Championship in 1952.

"He also played for the County Minors that year, having made the panel the previous year in 1951. A great half back or midfielder, he also went on to represent Donegal at Junior level for 3 years.

"Thomas made his debut for the Senior team in 1952 and played regularly until 1956 when he emigrated to England after finishing his studies in Galway. Thomas had lived in Dublin for many years, although before ill health set in, he was always a regular visitor back to his home on the Diamond.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to his son Shane and daughter Cara and to the extended Breslin family on his death. May he rest in peace."

A wake to celebrate his life will take place in the Harcourt hotel on Thursday, 30th June, from 7.30pm and in Ardara on Friday, 8th July.