Tributes have been paid to the late Brother Finbar Spring, who has passed away.
Since the late 1980s, Brother Spring has been passing on his passion for GAA Handball in Dungarvan through St. Augustines College and the Friary Abbeyside Ballinacourty Club, which he founded.
He helped Waterford’s handballers become a formidable underage outfit who have won All-Irelands across almost every age group.
Br. Spring was also responsible for the funding and building of several alleys in Waterford.
Waterford Handball has led tributes to Spring, who was a winner of the GAA President's Award in 2011.
"All at Waterford Handball are deeply saddened at that the news that our beloved Brother Finbar Spring passed away this morning. The news has hit all at Waterford handball and the handball community very hard this morning as Brother was a cherished member of the handball community not just in Ireland but around the globe."
"Words can not sum up what a treasure Brother has been to the Friary Abbeyside club and Waterford handball as he gave his life to handball. Brother Spring played a vital role in our community performing the role of coach, supporter and most importantly a valued friend to all in our small club over the years where he traveled all over the globe spreading smiles and laughter on the faces of many."
"A truly extraordinary man both inside and outside the alley and we have all been blessed with having the pleasure of knowing him. RIP Brother Finbar Spring."
Former Mayor of Waterford and Fine Gael Councillor Damien Geoghegan said: "Rest in Peace Brother Spring. An absolute gentleman who did enormous work for the sport of handball both locally and nationally. Deepest Sympathies to all of his family, The Augustinian Community, and his many friends in the handball community."
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date. May he rest in peace.
