ALAN KELLY HAS been named Major League Soccer Referee of the Year in just his second season in the league.
The Cork native took charge of 21 MLS fixtures throughout the course of the 2015 season and was voted as the best official by players, club management and the media.
Kelly moved to America in January 2014 after a securing a role with the Professional Referee Organisation. He soon established himself as a leading referee and was nominated for the same award twelve months ago.
The 40-year-old was the winner by a clear margin, ahead of Baldomero Toledo and Jair Marrufo.
Before moving Stateside, Kelly took charge of more than 350 SSE Airtricity League of Ireland games and is widely regarded as Ireland’s finest referee having being named the referee of the year at the PFAI awards five times.
The former Fifa and Uefa referee has been the man in the middle for Champions League and international games during his career.
Great piece. Rip barry
Well written. Played with them both. RIP
Very well written piece. RIP
Great piece,RIP Barry
Very well written piece and not ashamed to say it brought a tear to my eye,a tragedy for his family and the entire Clare GAA community. May his soul find eternal peace and may he RIP.
Tragic, RIP
Its so sad.. He got such a send off and he will never be forgotten.. Thinking of his family and friends…
Knew him from second year Ag Science! Top man!
Very well written it felt like I had no sooner read about his brother and his performance in the states when I had to read of this tragedy .I hope his family are ok .
Rest in peace .
@Paul FitzPatrick…..a great tribute to the life of a young sportsman who left this world earlier than anyone expected.