Hughie McConnell joined the R.U.C. Football club in 1974 when he was signed by the then R.U.C. II manager Brian Dunlop.

The following season he made his debut for the R.U.C. against Crusaders Reserves when the R.U.C. played their fist ever match In the Irish League “B” Division. The game was played at Shaws Bridge and resulted in a 4-0 win for the police with McConnell scoring twice from outside left.

McConnell who had to travel from Bessbrook every Saturday by public transport went on finish the season as the R.U.C. leading goals scorer with a remarkable 27 goals including three hat tricks.

He continued to represent the Police until he was sadly murdered in South Armagh by the I.R.A. on June the 17th. 1978. He was 32 years of age.

Hugh McConnell was born in Kingsmills and played for Newry Town before joining the Police. Of slight build and quiet disposition he was a role model for all Police footballers.