Tributes paid after the death of FAI employee Michael Hayes

FAI’s Michael Hayes passed away after a brief illness.

The association’s Competitions Department employee worked closely with the League of Ireland, and Irish football is in mourning tonight after his death.

Mr. Hayes was widely known for his extensive knowledge of the history of the League of Ireland.

FAI President Gerry McAnaney led the tributes: “We are all shocked by this news tonight. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s family at this difficult and unexpected time.

“We are still coming to terms with this sad and sudden news. The sense of loss that is already so evident within the FAI, and within Irish football, demonstrates the esteem we all held for Michael Hayes.

“Michael was a source of knowledge on all things Irish football. It wasn’t worth knowing what he didn’t know about our rules, our history, and our game. May he rest in peace. “

A large number of clubs in the League of Ireland have also issued statements showing their respect for Mr Hayes and his family.

Shelbourne FC said: “We deeply regret that we learned tonight of the passing of Michael Hayes from the FAI. Michael was the source of all knowledge in the association and of great help and assistance to us and to many clubs. Many will be greatly missed.” .

Waterford FC Operations Manager Tony Burke said: “It is with our condolences that we have learned of the sad passing of Michael Hayes, our league’s fixtures manager. Michael was a lifelong Blues fan. , hailing from St Johns Park and a tireless worker in our Club for many years before leaving to move to a senior position at FAI.

“Through all of Waterford United’s struggles and until the next chapter of waterford FC under the Lee Powers era, Michael has always been on the end of the phone with solid advice and clarity on any subject for all of our past and present secretaries and for me. .

“His knowledge of the rules and regulations was limitless and he will be missed across the country.” football family.

Wexford FC MEP Mick Wallace said: “I am very sorry to hear about the death of Michael Hayes. I spent years on the phone arguing with him this week, as I did almost every week. Always a mixture of football and politics. . I will miss it”. … “

Former Dundalk coach John Gill said: “Very sad news about Michael Hayes, he had a lot of jousts with him, but he always stayed true to his convictions and admired him for that.”