There will be a minute’s silence ahead of this evening’s Louth Derby in memory of teenager Zara Murphy, who tragically passed away while playing with her club Termonfeckin Celtic in the Louth School Girls League on Thursday night.
Everyone at Oriel Park would like to extend our deepest condolences to Zara’s family, friends and teammates at this very difficult time.
May she rest in peace.
Louth School Girls League and FAI offer support to the family of Zara Murphy
The FAI and the Louth School Girls League released a statement on Friday afternoon paying tribute to Zara who was described as a ‘dedicated sports star across many disciplines.
It read: ‘Louth School Girls League and the Football Association of Ireland are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of teenager Zara Murphy after she collapsed as she played for Termonfeckin Celtic FC against her former club Glen Magic FC on Thursday evening.
‘The thoughts and prayers of all involved with Irish football are with Zara’s parents Brian and Angela, her brother Ben, extended family, her many friends and all now grieving her loss in the local community.
‘All games in the Louth School Girls League and the North East Football League, including all ladies’ fixtures, have been called off this weekend as a mark of respect to Zara, a dedicated sports star across many disciplines.
‘A minute’s silence in honour of Zara’s memory will take place before tonight’s SSE Airtricity League Premier Division Louth derby between Dundalk and Drogheda United at Oriel Park.’
“The first thoughts of all coming to terms with this tragedy are with Brian, Angela and Ben,” said Bróna Mackin, Children’s Officer with the Louth School Girls League. “Nobody can comprehend what the family are going through now and we are all heartbroken for them.
“Zara was a wonderfully committed footballer who loved the game. She had previously played for Glen Magic until her recent transfer to Termonfeckin Celtic and thus many of her fellow players will be so touched by this devastating news.
“As her League, we can only offer all our support to Zara’s family, to both clubs and to all affected by this shocking loss of one so young.”
Speaking on behalf of the FAI, President Paul Cooke said: “The news that came our way on Thursday evening was so shocking. To learn of the passing of a talented footballer at such a young age is particularly devastating.
“On behalf of everyone connected to Irish football in any way, can I offer our sympathies to Brian, Angela, Ben and their extended families and to all who knew Zara, particularly within Termonfeckin Celtic FC and Glen Magic FC. May she rest in peace.”
FAI Grassroots Director Ger McDermott added: “We are so shocked to learn of the news of Zara’s tragic passing. Our local Development Officer Mick Neville and our support staff have been liaising with the clubs and the Louth School Girls League and we will make every assistance available to all affected as they come to terms with this shocking news.
“We also extend our sympathies to our referees in Louth as Zara’s dad Brian is the chair of the Louth Branch of the Irish Referee’s Society and all his refereeing colleagues will share our sense of loss today.”