TRIBUTES have flooded in after the tragic death of a Kilkenny footballer during a charity club game.
On Wednesday evening Shane Murphy, aged in his 40s, fell ill during the match and subsequently passed away.
Emergency services were informed of the incident that occurred during a fundraiser for Cois Nore Cancer Support Kilkenny and arrived on the scene shortly afterwards.
Gardai are treating it as a ‘medical incident’ and added: “An Garda Síochána has no further information at this time”.
Mr Murphy’s club have been left reeling at the tragic turn of events as he was a highly popular figure who was hugely devoted to River Rangers AFC of Ballycallan, Kilkenny.
A club statement read: “We are truly devastated over the tragic loss of our Chairman, player and very good friend Shane Murphy.
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“Maeve and Bill, our members are with you all in your time of grief.
“River Rangers AFC extends to you, and your wider family, its deepest sympathy. We are heartbroken for your loss.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Kilkenny District Soccer League paid a further tribute to him.
The League stated: “We saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Shane Murphy.
“Heartfelt condolences to Shane’s family, friends and all at River Rangers AFC.
“Shane was a big part of the football community in Kilkenny.
“He was the current chairman of River Rangers AFC and a terrific player. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
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Other football clubs across the county have also been quick to express their sorrow at the news.
Evergreen FC wrote: “All at Evergreen would like to pass on our sincerest sympathies to the Murphy family and River Rangers on the untimely passing of Shane Murphy.
“Shane was the chairman of River Rangers and a stalwart of their team over the years, A gentleman to his core.
“The Kilkenny & District Soccer League and the entire community is worse off for his loss.”
Fort Rangers FC added: “All at Fort Rangers FC wish to offer our sincerest condolences to our near neighbours and friends at River Rangers AFC on the sad passing of their club chairman, Shane Murphy.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Shane’s family, friends and clubmates at this tragic time.
“May heaven be his bed. RIP Shane.”
Coir More Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny posted the following condolences on its social media: “Our sincere condolences to Shane’s family, friends, colleagues and club members”.
