THE death of a coach known from "one corner of Ireland to the other" has been described by friends as a "big, sad loss to the GAA family.
John Morrison, who managed Antrim and held backroom positions with home county Armagh, died on Tuesday.
He also coached with Derry, Donegal, Mayo and Leitrim, was an author of training manuals and articles and a columnist with The Irish News previously as well as the Ulster Gazette and Gaelic Life.
Mr Morrison was last night remembered by former players and colleagues as a "brilliant innovative coach" with a "big heart of gold".
Read more: John Morrison was a coach loved and admired across many counties
Armagh assistant manager Jim McCorry said he was sad to lose such a great friend.
"I think everyone who knew John was mighty impressed with him," Mr McCorry said.
"His character was so distinctive – he always had a joke for you and a laugh, but when it came to giving you a bit of good advice, I know I got plenty over the years.
"More importantly, he’ll be missed by his family, including his beloved grandchildren."
Sinn Féin assembly member Conor Murphy said Mr Morrison was a highly respected and talented coach throughout the GAA and wider world of sport.
"A very approachable person, he was always on hand for advice and indeed a bit of craic. My deepest sympathy to his family on their tragic loss," he said.
SDLP assembly member and former All-Ireland winner Justin McNulty said he was a "great man and a highly respected coach who helped mould my and countless other footballers' careers".
Read more: John Morrison was a coach loved and admired across many counties
