Shock as leading Wicklow sports figure Daniel Dowling dies suddenly

Deep sorrow descended on the tight-knit communities of Glenmalure, Ballinacor, Rathdrum and surrounding areas after the sudden and unexpected death of married father-of-two Daniel ‘Danny’ Dowling.

Danny, a stalwart of both Ballinacor GAA Club and Rathdrum Rugby Club, died peacefully at his home at the Glenmalure Lodge on Saturday morning.

His passing caused complete shock in the locality and he was part of the Rathdrum Rugby Club side who competed against Terenure RFC in the Metro League Division 5t final as recently as Friday, April 12.

John Cashman of Rathdrum Rugby Club remembers Danny as a committed rugby player who could always be found with a smile on his face off the pitch.

“The club is heartbroken at Danny’s passing but our grief is nothing compared to what is family are going through, and we will stand by them in any way we can during this hugely difficult time. Danny played all his life at Rathdrum Rugby Club and he was part of the Blackrock College senior team who won the Leinster Senior Cup with Luke Fitzgerald as a team mate. Danny started the leaving cert cycle at Blackrock College and immediately went straight into the senior team, which is no mean feat. He was an uncompromising and tough back row and played at number 8 for Rathdrum.

“His family are very much ingrained into Rathdrum Rugby Club and his two brothers and sister have also played for the club. His passing is such a complete shock. Our thoughts are with his family, especially his wife Brittany and his kids Cohen and Reggie, who used to be down on the sidelines supporting Danny during match day.

“Danny also worked in New Zealand for a few years and played rugby out there as well. He then came back and started playing for Rathdrum again and was team captain for two years.

“It’s going to be a very tough time for the club and everyone involved. Danny was such a friendly person and was always laughing with a smile on his face. He is going to be so badly missed.”

Danny was the beloved son of Anne and the late Paddy, husband to Brittany, father to Cohen and Reggie, brother to Michael, Steven and Maureen, and son-in-law to Annette and Rodney.

He helped run the family-owned Glenmalure Lodge, while the Dowling’s also operate a farm as well.

An accomplished sportsman, as well as playing rugby, Danny was also a much valued GAA player for Ballinacor GFC and a talented endurance runner.

A moving tribute posted on the Ballinacor GFC Facebook account stated: “Our valley and community fell into a shocked silence at the sudden and untimely passing of our dearly beloved friend, neighbour, teammate, and club member Danny Dowling.

“It has been our privilege to have had our friend Danny as a highly respected leader and role model in our Club. Danny stood proud and tall alongside his comrades in the white and green of Ballinacor, taking to the field for many a battle. Danny had the highest of standards. He trained hard and played harder. Both friend and foe have experienced the physicality and ferocity of a duel with Danny. The battle was real. As was the shake of the hand and the smile at the final whistle.

“Danny’s presence alone on the pitch lifted the hearts and spirits of every Ballinacor player and supporter. He knew who needed a nod, who needed a word of encouragement, and who just needed a look to get things going again.

“Danny, a complete clubman, was dedicated to Ballinacor in all aspects; from AGM’s, to Dancing with the Cors, to being one of the Thorniest Roses in the Valley.

“As our club and community mourn the loss of Danny Dowling, we wish to extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Danny’s family his many friends both in Ireland and New Zealand.”

Neighbouring club, Laragh GFC, also posted their own tribute to Danny, stating: “All at Laragh GFC would like to offer their deepest condolences to the Dowling family on the untimely passing of Danny Dowling.

“Danny played for neighbouring club Ballinacor and was the ultimate competitor on the field. Our club has had plenty of great battles with Ballinacor over the years and Danny was a pivotal part of this. It’s a very passionate rivalry on the field but you can always be sure at the end of the match there is handshakes and Danny would invite players and supporters back to the lodge for one, and we as a club were always very grateful for this.”

Details of Danny’s funeral arrangements have not yet been released.

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