MEATH GAA have paid heartfelt tribute to a young supporter after his untimely death. Tom Lynch, one of the county’s most cherished supporters, sadly passed away at just 12 years of age. Tom hailed from the Ballinlough and Kilskyre areas near Kells, and was a passionate sports fan whose love extended beyond Meath GAA to include Manchester City and Irish rugby. The child had battled Hypotonia and Global Development Delay (GDD) but his determination saw him take centre stage at major sporting events. He walked out as mascot with Ireland rugby captain Caelan Doris and with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Pep Guardiola. And his deep love for Meath GAA saw him take on roles such as club mascot and, in late 2022, he was named an honorary member of the county’s Minor Committee. He also proudly presented Ballinlough with their Championship trophy that year. Meath GAA said Tom quickly became a fixture at matches across the county once he had a motorised wheelchair. Though efforts were made to fund his dream of walking – raising over €200,000 – further health setbacks meant it was not to be. Taking to X, Meath GAA released a statement, it read: “All in Coiste na Mí C.L.G. are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tom Lynch aged just twelve years of age. “We extend our sympathies to Derek, Nikki, Charlie, Lucy and to the extended Lynch and Farrelly families as well as the Ballinlough and Kilskyre communities.” A family notice posted on RIP.ie described Tom as the light of their lives. Tom was a bright, kind and fun loving boy whose smile lit up every room. It read: "A proud supporter of Manchester City, Meath GAA, Rugby, his local teams Ballinlough GFC, Kilskyre Hurling club. "Tom was a proud student of Kilskyre National School, where he will be sorely missed by his school mates, teachers and the whole community." He is deeply missed by his parents Derek and Nikki, siblings Charlie and Lucy, grandparents, extended family, and many friends at Kilskyre National School, where he was a beloved student. Tom’s funeral will take place on Saturday, April 19 at 12pm in St Alphonsus Liguori Church, Kilskyre, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.