Footballer, 23, tragically dies on Christmas Eve as clubs pay tribute | Football | Sport
The football community in Northern Ireland is mourning the loss of a “much-loved” and gifted young player, Callum McVeigh, who tragically passed away on Christmas Eve. McVeigh, 23, was known for his versatility and technical prowess and earned the respect and admiration of team-mates across various clubs in Northern Ireland. His most recent stint was with Killyleagh FC, where he played a key role in their 13-1 triumph over Clonduff earlier this month.
Killyleagh FC expressed their heartfelt condolences to Callum’s family and friends, acknowledging the profound grief they must be experiencing. In a poignant social media post, the club announced: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our player, Callum McVeigh, who died on Christmas Eve at the age of 23. “Callum joined our club on 6th November from Knockbreda, having previously played with Ards and Linfield Swifts.
“Although his time with us was far too short, he made a meaningful and lasting impression. He settled in immediately, showed great commitment, starting at left back and earned the respect and friendship of teammates, management, and committee alike.”
They added: “Callum’s final appearance for the club came on 13th December, when he represented us in the Clarence Cup fixture against Clonduff with a 13-1 victory – a moment we will now remember with great pride and sadness.
“We will long remember the fun and enjoyment of that evening as he joined us later that night for the players’ Christmas party at The Dufferin.
“On behalf of the entire committee, management, and playing staff, we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the father Marcus, Mother Lisa and Brother Ethan, Callum’s friends, and all who are grieving this unimaginable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time.”
They also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, sympathy, and kindness from the wider football community during this challenging period for the club.
“Callum will always be remembered as part of our club and will forever remain in our thoughts,” they concluded. His former team, Knockbreda Football Club, also paid tribute to the young player on social media following his tragic passing.
They stated: “All at Knockbreda Football Club are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh. Callum departed for Killyleagh just a few weeks ago.
“Callum signed for Knockbreda in 2023 following successful times at youth level with Linfield, Portadown and Ards which included super cup representation and a Steel and Sons winners medal.
“Callum went on to make 76 appearances for Knockbreda and was a versatile player with quality and technical ability.” Chairman Dave Cain added that Callum was a much-loved and popular figure at Knockbreda among his fellow players, supporters and everyone associated with the club.
Captain Peter McDermott expressed the team’s grief, stating: “We have been devastated since hearing the news. He was a huge part of our changing room and lives over the last few years. He was an excellent footballer and more importantly an even better friend.
“Our condolences, love and prayers to Callum’s family at this sad time.” Linfield FC, another club where Callum showcased his talents, posted: “Linfield FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh, who passed away yesterday at only 23 years of age.
“Callum was a valued member of the Linfield Swifts side that lifted the Steel and Sons Cup in 2019, before progressing into senior football with spells at Portadown, Ards, Knockbreda, and most recently Killyleagh YC.
“Everyone at Linfield FC extends their heartfelt condolences to Callum’s family, friends, and teammates, past and present, at this very difficult time.”
