Teenager dies during football game

A teenage boy died while playing in an U16 football match yesterday.

Mon, 01 Jun, 2015 - 01:00

Conall Ó Fá;tharta

The boy, who has not been named, was playing for Belvedere FC in a lunchtime game against St Kevin’s Boys in Shanowen Rd in Santry, Dublin, when he collapsed shortly after the match started.

St Kevin’s had a defibrillator at the scene within 60 seconds of the collapse but it is believed the young man died instantly

In a statement, Belvedere FC said the entire club was in shock at the tragic death.

“Belvedere Football Club is mourning the death of one of our U16 players who tragically collapsed while playing for the club today. While all of our members are in deep shock, our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this tragic time.”

“We ask that the privacy of the family be respected as the club supports them in grieving their boy. We won’t be releasing the player’s name until all family members have been contacted. The club will also support our U16 players, coaches and parents who are devastated at the loss of a very popular team-mate.”

Belvedere’s Facebook page The club is one of the most successful schoolboys’ football clubs in the country andlast night was flooded with messages of support.