Under-20 Irish rugby team to wear black armbands in tribute to teenagers who died in Greece
In a heartfelt show of respect, the Ireland Under-20 rugby team will don black armbands during their match in South Africa today to honor the memory of two young Irish teenagers who tragically lost their lives while on holiday in Greece.
Head coach Richie Murphy expressed the devastating impact the deaths of Andrew O’Donnell and Max Wall had on the team, particularly those who knew the two adolescents as friends from their time at St Michael’s College in Dublin. Six players on Murphy’s squad were former students of the same school.
Andrew O’Donnell and Max Wall were among a larger group of classmates from St Michael’s who had traveled to the Greek Island of Ios to celebrate the completion of their Leaving Cert exams. The shocking news of their untimely demise has shaken the community.
Andrew’s body was discovered by the police on Sunday morning near rocks in a field outside Hora, the main town on the island. He had been reported missing by a friend after they became separated on their way back to their accommodation after a night out. It is believed that Andrew may have suffered a fatal fall.
Max, who had a history of heart problems, collapsed near the island’s port later that day upon hearing about the death of his friend. Post mortems are scheduled to be conducted today to shed light on the exact circumstances of their tragic deaths.
During their World Rugby Under-20s Championship game against Fiji today, the Under-20 squad will wear black armbands as a poignant tribute to Andrew and Max. Head coach Richie Murphy addressed the somber atmosphere within the team, acknowledging the profound impact of the loss. He extended his deepest condolences to the O’Donnell and Wall families.
Amidst this profound grief, the team suffered another blow when Munster Rugby coach Greig Oliver (58) tragically passed away in a paragliding accident in South Africa. Greig, who was in the country supporting his son Jack, was a former Scotland international and had represented his country in two Rugby World Cups.
Greig’s son Jack was listed as a replacement for the match on Tuesday before the devastating news reached them. The rugby community, both in Scotland and Ireland, has been deeply affected by his sudden departure. Greig Oliver’s professional career included coaching and management positions at Scottish Borders and Edinburgh before relocating to Ireland with his family in 2007. His dedication and enthusiasm had a lasting impact on players and colleagues.
Munster Rugby CEO, Ian Flanagan, expressed the heartfelt condolences of the club to Greig’s wife Fiona, son Jack, daughter Ciara, and the extended Oliver family. He described the shock and devastation felt by the Munster and Irish Rugby community, emphasizing Greig’s popularity and his role in nurturing young players both on and off the field.
In this time of profound loss and grief, the rugby community stands united in compassion and support for those affected by these tragic events. The Ireland Under-20s’ decision to wear black armbands is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. May the souls of Andrew O’Donnell, Max Wall, and Greig Oliver rest in peace.
