Sporting world stunned after the death of Luke Harney (33)

The stunned communities in Kilmacow and Ferrybank are trying to come to terms with the shock and sudden death of talented sportsman, Luke Harney, who represented both Kilkenny and Waterford on the National stage, who died in the early hours of this morning (Monday) at the age of 33.

The father of two, who was both an accomplished hurler and soccer player, and won an All-Ireland minor hurling title with Kilkenny back in 2010, whilst also winning National soccer titles with Waterford during his underage soccer career, took ill on the training pitch on Friday before losing his battle with life at University Hospital Waterford.

A terrific halfback in hurling, he wore the number six jersey for his county when landing the All-Ireland minor 15 years ago, before he went on to play in the Walsh Cup at senior level. He also played in the Kilkenny team that lost the Under 21 All-Ireland to Clare back in 2012.

Harney was also a fantastic centre back in soccer, where he represented Waterford at Inter-League level, winning a number of National trophies before he turned his attention to hurling, where he played with his local club Kilmacow.

Although he resided with his fiancée Natasha and their two young daughters, Holly and Sofia, in Ferrybank, he stayed loyal to his homestead in Kilmacow when it came to GAA and couldn’t be persuaded to line out for Ferrybank at senior level.

He did, however, play for Ferrybank in soccer, where he’ll be fondly remembered as a no-nonsense defender. A real team player, he has been described by the Kilmacow GAA club as a “leader, beloved teammate, club member, and friend.” He was a valued employee for many years at Tirlan in Belview.

Luke, who was the son of Paul and Jacinta, brother of Gerry, Shane, and Jake, will be laid to rest after his funeral Mass, which will be celebrated at 2pm on Thursday at St. Senan’s Church, Kilmacow, in the adjoining cemetery.

A full tribute will appear in Waterford News & Star next week.