‘Great teammate’ - GAA club leads heartbreaking tributes to ‘lively & outgoing’ schoolboy who died after short illness

Eunan will be reposing at his residence on Wednesday morning

SAD LOSS ‘Great teammate’ – GAA club leads heartbreaking tributes to ‘lively & outgoing’ schoolboy who died after short illness

HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a teenage GAA star who was remembered as a "lively and outgoing" schoolboy.

Eunan Harvey passed away earlier this morning after a "short illness”.

3 The talented sportsman represented Gleann Fhreabhail GAA with acclaim Credit: funeraltimes

3 Eunan played on U16 Championship winning team last year Credit: Glenravel - Gleann Fhreabhail GAA / Facebook

The talented sportsman represented Gleann Fhreabhail GAA with acclaim, and was remembered as an "outstanding sportsperson".

The club paid an emotional tribute to Eunan, describing him as a "great teammate and friend".

A statement on the club's Facebook page read: "It is with the deepest sadness that we learned of the passing of Eunan, a great teammate and friend.

"Eunan was the kind of fella everyone enjoyed having around the pitch and the dressing room - passionate, energetic, and always ready with a smile.

"His infectious spirit lifted everyone around him, both on and off the field.

"A natural sportsman and a loyal friend, he brought laughter and life wherever he went.

"Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made will never be forgotten.

"Our thoughts are with Sean, Sharon, Aoife & Lena, his friends, and teammates both here and in Glenariffe, during this difficult time."

Eunan also played on our U16 Championship winning team last year and The Breslin Cup winning team in 2023.

Similarly devastated was his school - St Killian's College - where he was in Year 14.

'VALUED MEMBER'

In a statement, the school mourned: "Eunan was a valued member of our school community—bright, lively and full of promise.

"Surrounded by many friends, his presence touched our lives and brought much joy to his entire year group.

"His loss will be felt deeply by all our students, staff, and those who knew him."

Eunan was a top achieving pupil at both GCSE and AS Level, and recently achieved an A in PE, a Distinction in ICT and a C in Environmental Technology whilst battling an illness.

'LIVELY, OUTGOING AND SOCIABLE'

The young man represented the college in numerous sports, his club Glenariffe and Co Antrim in hurling, and also represented Con Magees, Glenravel in Gaelic football.

The school continued: "Eunan was a lively, outgoing and sociable young man who made a lasting impression among his peers and large friendship group.

"Eunan knew how to enjoy himself and had a great sense of humour, showing us the importance of making the most out of each and every day.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to all of Eunan’s family, particularly his parents Sharon and Sean, and his sisters Aoife and Lena.

'INCREDIBLY DIFFICULT TIME'

"Our thoughts are also with his friends, classmates and entire St Killian’s community during this incredibly difficult time."

Eunan's passing also left the local community devastated, and many took to social media to express their condolences.

One said: "Absolutely heartbreaking - what a wonderful young man, a credit to his family.

"Always gave 100% on the field, Always had a smile on his face. Thoughts are with his family and friends."

'AN ANGEL'

Someone else added: "Taken too soon Eunan. A devastating loss for his family, his whole family circle, his friends and parish community. An angel in our midst - may you rest easy Eunan.

"Deepest condolences to the whole family and may God bring you strength and walk with you in the coming days.

A third wrote: "Heartbroken to hear this. Eunan was an outstanding young man - brilliant in the classroom, a natural leader in sport, and above all a kind and genuine person.

"It was a privilege to teach and know him. My thoughts and prayers are with Eunan, his family and many close friends."

Eunan will be reposing at his residence on Wednesday morning.

Requiem mass will take place at 11am in St Patrick's and St Brigid's Church, with the funeral afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

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