Tributes pour in for Irish footballer, 23, who left ‘meaningful and lasting impression’ after tragic death on Xmas Eve

Several of his former clubs have released statements
TRIBUTES have been paid following the heartbreaking death of a young footballer in a tragic accident on Christmas Eve.

Down native Callum McVeigh, 23, lost his life in an accident on Wednesday night, prompting a deluge of tributes on social media.

He was best known as a talented footballer who won the Steel and Sons Cup on Christmas Day in 2019 with Linfield Swifts.

McVeigh joined Portadown in 2020 but only played three games due to injury issues.

He signed for Ards in July 2022 and played seven times for the club before joining Knockbreda in January 2023.

Only last month, the Downpatrick man joined Killyleagh and made his last appearance on December 2023.

Killyleagh led the tributes to McVeigh with an emotional statement on social media.

It read: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our player, Callum McVeigh, who died on Christmas Eve at the age of 23.

“Although his time with us was far too short, he made a meaningful and lasting impression.

“He settled in immediately, showed great commitment, starting at left back and earned the respect and friendship of teammates, management, and committee alike.

“Callum’s final appearance for the club came on 13th December, when he represented us in the Clarence Cup fixture against Clonduff with a 13-1 victory — a moment we will now remember with great pride and sadness.

“We will long remember the fun and enjoyment of that evening as he joined us later that night for the players Christmas party at The Dufferin.

“On behalf of the entire committee, management, and playing staff, we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the father Marcus, Mother Lisa and Borther Ethan, Callum’s friends, and all who are grieving this unimaginable loss.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time.

“We would also like to sincerely thank the wider football community for the overwhelming messages of support, sympathy, and kindness received during this difficult time.

“They have been greatly appreciated by everyone at the club.

“Callum will always be remembered as part of our club and will forever remain in our thoughts.

“Rest in peace, Callum.”

‘EVEN BETTER FRIEND’

Knockbreda also mourned his passing, praising him as a “versatile player” who showed “quality and technical ability” throughout his 76 appearances.

Speaking on behalf of the club’s players, captain Peter McDermott said: “We have been devastated since hearing the news.

“He was a huge part of our changing room and lives over the last few years. He was an excellent footballer and more importantly an even better friend.

“Our condolences, love and prayers to Callum’s family at this sad time.”

Linfield echoed the above sentiments, saying it was “deeply saddened” to learn of McVeigh’s death.

The club lamented: “Callum was a valued member of the Linfield Swifts side that lifted the Steel & Sons Cup in 2019, before progressing into senior football with spells at Portadown, Ards, Knockbreda, and most recently Killyleagh YC.

“Everyone at Linfield FC extends their heartfelt condolences to Callum’s family, friends, and teammates, past and present, at this very difficult time.”

‘TRUE FRIEND’

In addition to being a talented footballer, McVeigh was mourned as an accomplished musician.

Inch Flute Band said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we learn the devastating news of the untimely passing of our deeply treasured band member and friend, Callum McVeigh.

“Callum was more than a bandmate, he was a true friend to many, and his presence, commitment, and character meant so much to us all.

“His loss is one that will be felt deeply throughout the band and far beyond.

“Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with Callum’s brother Ethan, mum and dad Lisa and Marcus and the wider family circle at this incredibly difficult time.

“May they find comfort in knowing how much he was respected, valued, and loved by everyone in the band.

“Callum will always be remembered and never forgotten within the Inch Flute Band family circle.”