GAA footballer dies, syndrome suspected

Another GAA footballer has died from a suspected case of sudden adult death syndrome (SADS).

Jason Morley was found dead by his wife, Rebecca, in their home at Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, when she woke on Wednesday. Morley was 37 and worked for a local scaffolding firm.

It is thought that his unexpected death may be down to SADS, which is believed to be responsible for approximately two deaths a week in Ireland. All-Ireland-winning Tyrone footballer Cormac McAnallen was a healthy 24-year-old when he fell victim to the condition in his sleep in March 2004.

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His death prompted an ongoing awareness campaign which has resulted in many sports players being screened for cardiac conditions and defibrillators installed at sports clubs.

The deceased's remains were removed to Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar where a post-mortem was carried out. It is believed Mr. Morley had been complaining of a sore throat in the days before his death, but had been to a doctor and was taking medication for that complaint.

Over the past two decades, Mr. Morley, a brother of former Mayo inter-county footballer Tony Morley, distinguished himself on local playing fields winning many honors with the Ballyhaunis GAA Club.

He was named club footballer of the year in 2000. Ballyhaunis club secretary Vincent Caulfield said Morley had been "the epitome" of what every sportsman should be.

"He was brave, as strong as a horse, looked after himself well," Mr. Caulfield said.

"Off the field, Jason was a true gentleman and a great family man."

A message on the club's website read: "It is with great sadness and deep regret our club have learned of the sudden and untimely passing of our loyal, cherished player and friend, Jason Morley. We offer our sincere condolences to his wife Becky, son Conor, parents Josie and Tony, brothers Tony and David and extended family and wide circle of friends."

 

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