Uachtarán CLG Aogán Ó Fearghail has extended the sympathies of the Association to the family of the late Handball hero Michael ‘Ducksy’ Walsh who has died suddenly after a short illness.

The Kilkenny man will go down in GAA history as one of the greatest ever players in a career that saw him win a phenomenal 38 Senior All-Ireland Handball titles, including a record 16 Senior Softball titles.

Uachtarán Ó Fearghail said: “Words like ‘iconic’ and ‘legend’ have never seemed more appropriate when looking to describe the great Michael ‘Ducksy’ Walsh and what he meant to Handball and to the wider GAA family.

“For a generation of Gaels he was the face of Handball – it’s biggest name and it’s brightest star on the back of the incredible success that he achieved throughout a career that will stand the test of time in the annals of the GAA as being one of the most prolific enjoyed by any individual.

“He wasn’t just an outstanding athlete – he was also a gentleman.

“I’ve no doubt that he helped inspire the talented young generation who are thriving in Handball today and that will be his legacy.

“But that he has been taken from us at such a young age and when he was still so active and successful in his beloved sport is a deep shock and we extend our condolences to all involved in Handball and to his many friends and in particular to his wife Sheena, son Dylan, daughters Megan and Niamh, his brothers John, Billy and Jimmy, his sisters Vera and Regina and wider family.

“Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann. Go dtuga Dia solas na bhFlaitheas dá anam uasal.”

Michael’s Funeral is on Saturday after 1.30p.m. Requiem mass in St. Bennett's Church, Bennettsbridge to Foulkstown cemetery.