‘Hole in our hearts that will never be filled’: Limerick rugby club pay tribute to teen Jack Freeney

BRUFF RFC says the passing of young Jack Freeney in the early hours of this Wednesday morning has left “a hole in our hearts that will never be filled”.

The south Limerick-based rugby club, in a post on social media, said they are heartbroken to announce the death of the beloved teenager. He received a melanoma diagnosis in 2024 and underwent brain surgery that year.

“From the moment of his diagnosis, Jack chose to fight his battles head on with remarkable grace and confidence. His strength never ceased to amaze us, and he is one of the most courageous young men we have ever had the pleasure of knowing.”

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Jack was always destined to play for Bruff RFC, living almost directly across the road from the club in Kilballyowen.

His talent was evident from a very young age. Jack could always be found at the club, spending hours kicking a ball with his dad, club stalwart Paddy Freeney, and his close friends. 

“From winning the James Keating tournament in 2017, joint-captaining the U18s team that won the North Munster Plate last year and then lifting the trophy in Thomond Park, his career saw him line out 84 times for the club he loved. He could nail a kick from anywhere in the opposition half, and how lucky are we to have been a small part of his journey ever since.” 

The club says many will have learnt of Jack’s story over the last 18 months and there’s not a single heart in their community that he has not touched. 

“He is an inspiration to every single one of us, and has shown us all the strength of not only himself and the Freeney family, but of our community as a whole, and how we can come together when needed. 

“There is more to life than rugby, but having the community and family that we do has meant everything to us in difficult times. The day Craig Casey visited Jack with an Irish jersey will always be a fond memory for us all.

"Little did Craig know when he walked in to meet Jack that he had returned the favour and had his signed Bruff jersey ready to gift him, and he was not long telling Craig how lucky he was to have it!”

Ex-Ireland and Munster back row forward Peter O’Mahony visited Jack when he was in Cork University Hospital and presented him with a jersey.

To the Freeney family, Bruff RFC say no words will ever be enough at this heartbreaking time. 

“We continue to think and pray for you in the difficult times ahead. Jack, your spirit, your laughter and the way you lifted everyone around you will be sorely missed.

"There will forever be a hole in our hearts that will never be filled, but know that your memory will continue to live on in everything we do,” concluded the touching tribute by Bruff RFC.

Funeral arrangements to follow.

May he rest in peace.