The Kilkenny football community is mourning the loss of Shane Murphy, the beloved chairman of River Rangers AFC, who passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday evening while participating in a charity soccer match.
Shane was not just a leader off the pitch; he was a true embodiment of the club’s spirit and values, known for his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to both his club and the broader footballing community.
As a player, I always found River Rangers to be tough opponents. Their home ground in Clonnard is more than just a pitch; it’s a fortress where the lads know exactly how to play to their strengths. I’ve left that ground with my fair share of bumps and bruises—one bruise under my toenail even lingered for a year. Yet, regardless of the result, whether leaving with three points, one point, or none, I always departed with a deep respect for what River Rangers stood for: a group of people who love representing their club with pride.
River Rangers is a country club with over 50 years of history, built by individuals who will fight tooth and (toe)nail for each other. Their motto, “Friends Not Forgotten,” resonates deeply within the club and the wider footballing community. It’s a reminder of the legacy left by those who came before, including two River Ranger warriors, Ken and Michael Byrne, whose names grace a cup that I’ve contested four times as both a player and a manager, losing it three times in a row. Winning that trophy is not just a personal victory—it’s a moment to honor those who laid the foundation for us, those whose memories we carry on the field.
Shane Murphy was one of those warriors. While the spotlight often shines on the players, the work done behind the scenes by individuals like Shane is just as crucial, if not more so. The administrative side of local soccer can be a thankless task—dealing with fixture rearrangements, attending District League meetings, and handling grant applications is no glamorous lifestyle. But Shane did it all with a dedication to the betterment of River Rangers, the Kilkenny and District League, and the game of soccer itself.
The Kilkenny and District Soccer League expressed their sadness at Shane’s passing, noting, “Shane was well known locally both on and off the pitch, widely respected and often referred to as a pure gentleman! Shane will be sadly missed by all the footballing community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
While this is purely written from the context of football, there is the fact there is a very real family behind this loss. As a wider soccer community, we must also ensure that his legacy endures. The mantra of River Rangers, “Friends Not Forgotten,” rings truer now than ever. I hope as a league we can honor his commitment with a lasting tribute that reflects the profound impact on the club he loved.
