Harps GAA Club pays tribute to Rory Deegan

A Laois GAA Club has paid a touching tribute to former player Rory Deegan. 

The 22-year-old former Harps player tragically drowned while on a working holiday in Greece last Sunday. 

His former club spoke glowingly of the former player. Below is the statement in full. 

“The Harps GAA Club are saddened with grief and sorrow as we mourn the loss of our cherished club member and friend, Rory Deegan (R.I.P.).

We express heartfelt condolences to his parents Joe & Diane, his brothers Conor, Barry Ross and Jack, his sister Rachel along with grandparents, Donal & Margaret and the extended Deegan & Cullen families. Our sympathies are beyond words.

Rory was a shining light, with an infectious smile and character. He lit up the lives of all who knew him. He loved life and loved making others happy, he always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone he encountered. Rory was a people's person, his bubbly personality brought happiness and joy to everyone who walked in his path.

Born into a strong and dedicated hurling family, his inherent commitment and love for the game and his club was incessant. In his short life, he had many under-age hurling successes and in his return to play last year, his contribution was instrumental in our Junior County Final win in O'Moore Park. Rory hurled with sheer heart and pride. As a club and community, we are deeply saddened and brokenhearted by his passing. He will be greatly missed on the field, on the sidelines and the wider circles of life.

We are thankful for all the fun and fond memories he created and the larger than life spirit he shared with us. He will shine on in our hearts forever.

We offer our deepest condolences and unwavering support to all Rory's family, his friends and clubmates during this overwhelming time of loss and despair. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ni neart go cur le cheile

Harps G.A.A. Club”

Rory is due to be laid to rest following funeral mass in his native Cullohill next Tuesday.