Kilbrittain and Hammies mourn passing of Oisín Gillain 

Kilbrittain GAA and Hamilton High School Bandon are in mourning at the death of talented player Oisín Gillain.

The 18-year-old passed away on Tuesday suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Kilbrittain.

Gillain played GAA with his beloved Kilbrittain and was a key player for the West Cork side ever since an early age. He was part of the Kilbrittain team that won the Carbery JBHC last year when they beat Ballinascarthy in the final. He was introduced after 23 minutes and ended up scoring four points, all from play.

A statement from Kilbrittain GAA to The Echo on Thursday morning read: "At over 6 ft 5, Oisín was an imposing figure despite his young age. He had exceptional talent, his dedication, passion and skill were evident. A likeable character, a gentleman on and off the pitch. 

"He was already showing leadership qualities with the U21 teams especially in football, in recent years. As a 16-year-old, he made midfield his own while helping Kilbrittain win the Carbery U21 B football championship in 2023. 

He had looked out for younger players coming through from underage to minor, with encouragement and advice.

"His loss to the club, while huge, is small in comparison to the immeasurable loss to his family. The club extends our deepest sympathies and condolences to his teammates, friends and especially his parents Christophe and Catherine, sisters Sinéad and Fionnuala and the wider Gillain family."

The young player went to school in Hamilton High School Bandon and was due to sit his Leaving Cert this summer. 

Hammies claimed history last week when they won the Cork PPS Simcox Cup for the first time after a nail-biting two-point win over Skibbereen Community School in the final. Despite carrying an injury, Gillain was introduced after 45 minutes as he went into the full-forward position.

He was such an integral part of the Hamilton High School side that reached the semi-finals of the Corn Uí Mhuirí this year.

MAJESTIC

Gillain was one of the most important players on the team in his midfield position as he used his height and presence to his advantage. He was simply majestic in the quarter-final win over a fancied Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne side as he dovetailed well with Seán Coffey in the middle of the pitch.

Oisín was a beloved son, brother, nephew, grandson, cousin, godson, friend and neighbour who touched the lives of everyone he met. His humour, passion for life, loyal friendships and love of sport was renowned.

Oisín is deeply missed by his loving sisters, Sinéad and Fionnuala, his adoring Papa Christophe, and his heartbroken Mom, Catherine, his Nannie, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and his wide circle of devoted friends.

Oisín will repose at his home in Barleyfield, Kilbrittain (P72YR66) tomorrow (Friday) from 5.30pm to 7.30pm with Funeral Mass in Saint Patrick’s Church, Kilbrittain, on Saturday at 12 noon followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to Oisín’s beloved Kilbrittain GAA for the purchase of a new piece of equipment for the local GAA gym.