Tributes pour in for Coill Dubh and KDFL legend

Tributes have poured after the announcement of the death of one of the KDFL’s true iconic figures in Paudie O’Sullivan.

He was the embodiment of football man who poured his life into the Coill Dubh club, a club he helped form back in 1978.

As well as holding practically every position within the club, he was also an incredibly successful manager and during his time in charge of the club’s first team he turned them into one of the KDFL’s best ever teams.

Coill Dubh announced his sad passing on their social media pages.

“It is with deep sadness that Coill Dubh A.F.C. mourns the passing of Patrick “Paudie” O’Sullivan, a founding member and true pillar of our great club.

"Paudie was more than a club man — he was part of the very heartbeat of Coill Dubh A.F.C. From the earliest days, his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment helped shape the club into what it is today. His presence, guidance, and love for the club will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

"The club has lost its greatest legend this morning, but Paudie’s legacy will live on through the generations who proudly wear the Coill Dubh colours.

"Our deepest condolences go to Paudie’s partner Barbara, his son Patrick, his partner Meagan, Kelly and her partner Trevor Red ,Michael and his partner Frances and all his grandchildren and the extended O’Sullivan family at this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Paudie RIP.” 

The Kildare & District Football League also posted a touching message about the great man on their Facebook page.

“The KDFL were devastated to hear this morning of the passing of a giant of Kildare Football Paudie O Sullivan. Paudie was a founding member of Coill Dubh AFC in 1978 and continued to play a part in the Club until his untimely passing.

"His involvement in his precious club spanned an incredible 48 years where he held practically every position. When you ask about stalwarts of Kildare football, Paudie invariable is in the top of the pile. His commitment to the game of association football in Kildare was undeniable.

"From the early days in the Leinster Junior League to the KDFL, Paudie was at the forefront of the Club’s development from the Community field to the impressive facility at Cusack Park you see today. Every minute of every day was dedicated to his family, his community and his club.

"When Paudie walked into a room his presence was unmistakable and when he spoke people listened. He captured everyone’s attention when he spoke from the heart about the game he loved so dearly.

"Recipient of the KDFL Special Service Award in 2004/05 for his dedication, he steered his club to many victories over their 31 year history in the KDFL including five Senior League titles, two premier League titles, two Division 1 League titles, two Division 2 league titles, one Division 3 league title, one Division 4 League title, two Youth league titles, three League Cup titles, five Senior Cup titles, one Premier Cup title, one Division 1 Cup title, two Division 2 Cup titles, two youth Cup titles, one League shield title, one Div 1-2 Shield titles, one over 35 plate title, one over 35 cup title and three Club of the Year titles. Undoubtedly, one of the most successful Clubs in the League and in no small part due to the involvement of Paudie.

"Today we have lost a true gent. Legend, for sure without a doubt but we prefer the word giant of the game. Today we have lost one of the greatest, most influential and beloved members of our community. To Barbara, Kelly, Pa, Michael and to all in Coill Dubh AFC and the community of Coill Dubh we offer our deepest condolences.” 

Funeral arrangements will follow in due course.