Sudden Death Syndrome claims life of Mayo GAA player

A well known Gaelic Footballer from Ballyhaunis, County Mayo has passed away from what is thought to be a case of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS).

37-year old Jason Morley, who served his club with distinction for many years and was a brother of former Mayo footballer Tony, was found dead in bed by his wife Rebecca on Wednesday morning.

He is said to have complained of a sore throat in the days leading up to his death, but had visited a doctor and had been taking medication to treat his ailment.

It is thought that Jason’s death was caused by Sudden Adult Death Sydnrome, a condition that is said to be responsible for two deaths in Ireland every week and has affected numerous GAA players in the past, most notably former All-Ireland winning Tyrone captain Cormac McAnallen, who passed away in 2004.

Morley’s remains were taken to Castlebar General Hospital and a post mortem was due to take place yesterday. He was an extremely popular character within the Ballyhaunis club and his death was the cause of great sadness in the community.

The Ballyhaunis club issued a statement on their website yesterday regarding Morley’s passing which read: "It is with great sadness and deep regret our club have learned of the sudden and untimely passing of our loyal, cherished player and friend, Jason Morley.

"(We) offer our sincere condolences to his wife Becky, son Conor, parents Josie and Tony, brothers Tony and David and extended family and wide circle of friends."

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.