FAI ban use of net after boy’s tragic death

The Football Association of Ireland today banned the use of a net cover used in soccer camps all over the country, following a freak accident yesterday, in which a 10-year-old boy died.

Andrew Fitzgerald from Limerick died after he was struck by a goalpost.

He was among 150 children taking part in the Holycross Soccer Club Summer Camp near Bruff and was taking part in a penalty shoot-out when the tragedy occurred.

It is believed that a gust of wind caught a shooting practice net cover, which was attached to the goal posts, toppling them over. The crossbar hit the child on the head.

The camp, was not an FAI run scheme, however, a spokesman for the organisation today said they would not be using this piece of equipment in their camps, in the immediate future, as a mark of respect.

“We will be monitoring the recommendations of the gardaí and HAS following their investigations.

“We are not aware of any safety concerns about this piece of equipment at the moment. As a mark of respect was will not use it in the immediate future.”

Grown adults wept openly today as the community of Grange, in Limerick, where Andrew was from, learned with disbelief that the lively child, who was “loved by everyone,” had died. Local priest, Fr Joe Foley, said Andrew’s parents were grief stricken as was the child’s granny.

“He was a lovely, talented lad, and the whole community is shocked by this tragedy. Everyone knew him and loved him.”

Shocked neighbours and friends said today the tragedy was “too much to comprehend.”

One neighbour wept as she recalled the “lovely, lovely lad. I can see his face before me. No-one can believe this.”