Tributes pour in for City of Armagh’s Adam Hegarty
Irish rugby has been left devastated following the sudden death of young City of Armagh player Adam Hegarty, who passed away on Saturday night — just hours after scoring a try for the club’s Second XV.
Hegarty, originally from Saval near Newry, played earlier that day in a fixture against Dungannon. A gifted back with a sharp eye for the try line, he was awarded the Wilson Cup in 2023 as City of Armagh’s top try-scorer.
City of Armagh RFC confirmed his passing in an emotional statement, describing him as a player and person who left a profound mark on everyone around him.
“City of Armagh RFC are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of senior player, Adam Hegarty,” the club said.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Hegarty family and to all of Adam’s friends and teammates at this incredibly difficult time.
Adam joined our club at youth level and progressed right through to senior rugby. He was highly respected by coaches, teammates and all who knew him — both on and off the field. A true gentleman who represented our club with pride. He will be greatly missed by the entire City of Armagh RFC community.”
Rugby community unites in grief
Support has poured in from across Ulster as neighbouring clubs paid tribute.
Dungannon Football Club, who faced City of Armagh on Saturday, offered their condolences:
“We send our deepest sympathies to the members and players of City of Armagh RFC on the sad passing of their 2nd XV player, Adam Hegarty. Everyone will be in our thoughts and prayers over the coming days, weeks and months.”
Portadown RFC also expressed solidarity, emphasising the bond that exists beyond the white lines:
“We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone at City of Armagh Rugby Club following the heartbreaking loss of Adam Hegarty.
Our thoughts are with Adam’s family, friends, teammates, and the entire Armagh rugby community. Rugby brings rivals on the field, but unites us as one family off it. Today, we stand with you in grief and solidarity. May he rest in peace.”
Hegarty’s former club, Newry RFC, shared their own tribute, remembering his talent and the years he spent in their youth system:
“Adam played in our youth teams for many years and was a very talented rugby player.
The club would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Adam’s family — Noel, Caroline, Jack, and Ellen — and to his many friends and teammates in Newry and Armagh.”
The news has left a deep sadness across the local rugby community, with tributes continuing to be shared from teammates, coaches, and supporters.
