Number 1 '˜Geezer' looking down on fitting Foreglen tribute

Teammates of the late Foreglen goalkeeper Gary McGee donned number 1 jerseys with his nickname '˜Geezer' emblazoned on their backs in a fitting tribute before the club's clash with Craigbane at the weekend.
The Foreglen team on the pitch at Owenbeg before taking on Craigbane in the Derry Intermediate Championship,  wearing the number one jersey of their keeper Gary McGee who died earlier this month. Picture Margaret McLaughlin 17-9-16 ©The Foreglen team on the pitch at Owenbeg before taking on Craigbane in the Derry Intermediate Championship,  wearing the number one jersey of their keeper Gary McGee who died earlier this month. Picture Margaret McLaughlin 17-9-16 ©
The Foreglen team on the pitch at Owenbeg before taking on Craigbane in the Derry Intermediate Championship, wearing the number one jersey of their keeper Gary McGee who died earlier this month. Picture Margaret McLaughlin 17-9-16 ©

The players were joined by the daughters of the Ballykelly man, who passed away tragically at the age of just 32 at the end of August, as well as by Mr McGee’s partner Alana, his parents, sisters and nieces.

Club Committee member Tony McCaul said Gary’s death was a huge loss but that people believe the local shotstopper was looking down on them on Saturday.

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“The team played a great tribute to Gary before the game on Saturday,” said Mr McCaul.

“They all wore his number 1 jersey during the warm up before changing into their own rigs for the match itself.

“It was great, it really lifted the club and the supporters,

“We know it’s been a very difficult time for his family and friends and it’s been a really serious loss for the club as well.

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“There was good turnout and all the people at the match were thinking of Gary.

“We believe he was looking down on us and helped us through a very, very tight game,” added Mr McCaul.

In a tribute posted on the Foreglen GAA Facebook profile after the match, the club, stated: “There’s one guy that brought us through that tough game today... what a well fought performance from our seniors against a very good Craigbane team - Foreglen 0-14 Craigbane 0-13 - and now onto the semis against Steelstown next weekend - #no1 #geezer.”

Gary’s partner Alana responded: “Played well boys...he’s definitely proud of you all.”

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The club said: “Alana, it was brilliant that you and the girls made it to the match.

“Thank you so much for being there we are sure it took a lot for you to be there and remember the club and the players are with you every step of the way.”