‘His contribution was immense': Tributes paid after death of former Glentoran and Northern Ireland physio
News of George Magill's death was confirmed this morning, with tributes led by Glentoran – the club Mr Magill both supported and worked for across a number of decades.
In a tribute on social media, the east Belfast club said they were 'deeply saddened' and added that he had 'served the Glens with distinction' including during 'our iconic 1987/88 double-winning season, before retiring in 2015'.
The club's chairman Colin Jess highlighted Mr Magill's 'immense' legacy across football in Northern Ireland.
'George was a gentleman and a hugely valued member of the Glentoran family,' he said.
"His contribution to this club, and to football in Northern Ireland, was immense. We send our sincere condolences to Dorothy and the wider Magill family at this very sad time.'
Mr Magill – who celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with his wife Dorothy a number of weeks ago – worked at a number of other clubs in local football, including Larne, Carrick, Bangor and Portadown.
Larne chairman Gareth Clements wrote on social media: 'Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of George Magill.
"I got to know George at Larne Football Club in the very early eighties, and our paths crossed many times down the years, none moreso than during his time at Glentoran, where I was honoured to prepare the buffet to mark his retirement in 2015 after fifty one years service to local and international football.
"Rest in peace my friend.'
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Mr Magill's nephew also paid his own tribute online, writing about his uncle on the Northern Ireland Football Museum page: 'Terrible news this morning with the passing of my uncle, George Magill.
"Just a couple of weeks ago George & Dorothy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
'George was well known and respected right across Irish football. As well as being physio for the Northern Ireland international team and the Irish League representative teams, George helped out at most clubs in the league.
'Bangor, Ballymena, Carrick, Portadown, Larne and no doubt a few I have missed, but it was with his beloved Glentoran where he spent most of his career.
'Right up until his health issues over the last couple of years, George continued with his physio clinic. Although it's never nice getting an injury or ailment, I always loved going to Uncle George for treatment as you could guarantee that the treatment room would be full of Irish League superstars!'
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