Tributes paid to Kilkenny man who tragically died during charity soccer match

He was a popular member of the local sporting community.

Shane Murphy, who had been serving as the Chairman of River Rangers AFC in Ballycallan, was taking part in a game organised in support of Cois Nore - a cancer support centre in Kilkenny - when he was taken ill.

Emergency services were called to Freebooters AFC astroturf in Kilkenny city where Mr Murphy was treated. He was pronounced dead a short time later at St Lukes General Hospital.

Mr Murphy's club released a statement expressing their devastation at the loss of their chairman.

"We are truly devastated over the tragic loss of our Chairman, player and very good friend Shane Murphy," they wrote.

"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 also remembered Mr Murphy as a “big part of the football community” in Kilkenny.

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."

The local GAA club, Graigue Ballycallan GAA offered its "sincere condolences to Shane Murphy’s family and friends and to all at our local River Rangers FC on his sad and sudden passing."