Tributes paid to Rory Carlin at his sad passing at the weekend
Rory Carlin, from Strabane, died suddenly just hours after his club Strabane Athletic FC had won the North West Saturday Morning League on Saturday, May 6.
In a statement shared on their Facebook page, Strabane Athletic FC shared their shock at Carlin’s death as they paid tribute to the talented footballer.
“Today is one of the saddest in the short history of the Club with the news that our player Rory Carlin has passed away,” the club said.
“Rory was a member of the Championship winning Saturday Morning League squad and now hours later we hear this devastating news.
“There are no words we can offer to Rory’s family only our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy.
“Everything pales into insignificance when a young life is lost.
“Rory will never be forgotten by a deeply shocked Strabane AFC.
“His manager, coaches and fellow players are numbed by this awful tragedy.
“Rest in Peace Rory.”
The post was flooded with messages of support from club members and fellow other clubs involved in the North West Saturday Morning League.
Marcel Griffin, manager of Strabane Athletic FC, paid tribute to the young footballer in a social media post which read: “I am absolutely devastated to hear of the terrible sad lost of one of my Strabane Athletic Sat Morn squad members.
“Yesterday saw us win the league title and we celebrated last night with a trip to Donegal Town.
“Rory Carlin you would’ve been proud and should’ve been there. You helped us achieved this accolade, for that we all are grateful.
“After receiving a late cancellation message, I would never have imagined waking up this morning to hear that you are no longer with us bud. Words mean nothing now.
“To your mum, dad, brothers and wider family circle and close friends I am so so sorry for your lost.
“From the Strabane Afc wider community, if there’s anything we can help with we will endeavour to do all we can.
“You were a genuine, polite and lovable lad and you weren’t a bad baller on your day as well
“Your presence will be sadly missed. Until we meet again bud (make sure there’s a place in that football club above for me now).
“Fly high Rory and look over your loved ones, over the hardest of days ahead.”
Carlin also played GAA with Strabane Sigersons when he was younger, following in the footsteps of his mum Karen and brother Ryan, with the club paying tribute to the talented sportsman.
“Strabane Sigersons were saddened to hear of the passing of Rory Carlin,” a message from the club read.
“Rory was a past player with Sigersons and represented the club in the 2016 Juvenile Championship Final against Moortown.
“We would like to offer our deepest condolences to the Carlin & Casey families on their very sad loss.
“The two families have been long-term supporters of our club. His mum Karen was one of the founding players of Sigersons ladies with other family members having strong links to the club.
“We also offer our condolences with all Rorys friends within Sigersons and Strabane Athletic.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh anam.”
Jason Barr, SDLP Councillor at Derry City & Strabane District Council, has also paid tribute to Carlin.
“My Thoughts, prayers and sincere condolences are with the Carlin Family this evening on the untimely death of their son and brother Rory,” he said.
“Death is very hard to comprehend and deal with especially when it’s sudden and someone so young.
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