Tributes for the Tipperary-born GAA referee who died after falling ill during a UK referee match

Tributes are pouring out for Mattie Maher, a native of Tipperary, who died after falling ill while refereeing a GAA game in London on Saturday.

ondon GAA confirmed Mr Maher’s death in a statement and said it was “extremely sad” to report the “absolutely horrific news” that referee Mattie Maher passed away on Saturday night.

He had been officiating a provincial game at Watford when he fell ill but died on the way to hospital, a London GAA statement confirmed.

London GAA described Mattie, a father of two, as a “larger than life” character.

“Mattie, a prominent referee and well known to everyone involved at GAA in London, was a larger than life figure.

“He officiated numerous district finals over the last few years, a clear indication of how valued he was and had become a popular figure with players and spectators alike.

“Mattie was also a valued club delegate at district board meetings and frequently contributed to light-hearted discussions of important GAA matters … often concluding things with a witty, tongue-in-cheek comment,” the London GAA said in a statement.

Born in Tipperary, he was described as a devout family man who often had his two beloved children with him when he went to the grounds to strike matches.

“The Board of Directors would like to express its deepest condolences to you and his wife Denise at this extremely sad time.

“Due to this tragedy and as a mark of respect to Mattie, all London GAA games this weekend are cancelled.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam,” read the London GAA’s homage.