Danny Hale R.I.P.

Everybody at Dundalk Football Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Danny Hale, one of the most prolific and respected goalscorers to have represented the club.


Born in Waterfoot, Co. Antrim in July 1941, Danny enjoyed a distinguished career that spanned 13 senior seasons and more than 300 goals across clubs on both sides of the Irish border. Renowned for his sharp instincts, intelligent movement and clinical finishing, he was widely regarded as one of the outstanding centre-forwards of his generation.

Danny’s football journey began with Cliftonville as a teenager, scoring on his debut. Spells with Glentoran and Crusaders followed, the latter proving especially fruitful. During four highly productive seasons at Seaview, Danny’s goal tallies were remarkable, including a 55-goal campaign in 1965–66.

He joined Dundalk FC ahead of the 1966–67 season, arriving at a time of renewal for the club in a newly redeveloped Oriel Park. Under player-manager Alan Fox, Danny became a central figure in one of the most successful seasons in Dundalk’s history. He scored 28 goals in all competitions during that campaign, finishing as the Club’s leading scorer and playing a crucial role as Dundalk claimed the League Championship, Shield and Top Four Cup.

His performances earned him the Dundalk FC Supporters’ Club Player of the Year award.

Danny remained with the Club for a second season, featuring in European football against Vasas Budapest and once again contributing important goals before moving on late in the 1967–68 campaign. His Dundalk record stands at 81 appearances and 43 goals.

Following his departure from Oriel Park, Danny enjoyed further success with Derry City, where he continued his prolific form, setting a post-war club scoring record and becoming the rare recipient of leading league goalscorer honours on both sides of the border. He later finished his senior career with Ards, retiring with over 300 career goals to his name.

Everyone at Dundalk FC extends our deepest sympathies to Danny’s family, friends, and former teammates at this difficult time.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.