Family nears fundraising goal for injured soccer star from Limerick

THE FAMILY of a Limerick soccer star who was critically injured in a road collision before Christmas are now close to meeting their fundraising goals.

Josh Quinlivan, 21, was seriously injured while travelling on an electric motorbike on Monday, December 16, on the Old Cork Road at around 7:10pm that evening. 

Josh is in a critical condition following the incident and was transferred from University Hospital Limerick to Cork University Hospital for treatment. 

A well-known soccer star who plays for Pike Rovers FC,  his family have raised over €12,000 of their €13,000 goal for his treatment and recovery.  

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Josh’s aunt Marguerite Sheehan set up the GoFundMe page, which has garnered much support from communities across Limerick, with over 280 people donating so far.

In the latest GoFundMe update, Ms Sheehan said: “A quick thank you to everyone who has donated so far - ye have all been fantastic. Josh is a fighter and the strongest person we all know. 

“He is surrounded by the most amazing family and friends, who miss his jokes and laughter. 

“Please keep praying, sharing and donating for Josh so he can get the best possible help and support to come back to us.”

Some of the proceeds raised will go towards Bru Columbanus, in Wilton, Co Cork, where Josh’s family are staying at this time while he remains in the Cork hospital for treatment.

Treaty United, Pike Rovers and St Joseph’s were among the soccer clubs paying tribute to Josh and praying for him and his family. 

Having only turned 21 on December 10, the rising soccer star previously captained League of Ireland U19 side Treaty United FC, and made appearances for Cork City U19s and Fairview Rangers FC.

In January 2022, Josh was listed in the top 20 “rising talent” under 20 players in the League of Ireland.

A spokesman from Pike Rovers FC said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Josh and his family at this very difficult time, he’s a great centre-forward, a striker.

“When these things happen, it just brings everything into perspective, and you think you have problems until something like that lands on your doorstep. It is a big big shock, he is a very valuable and well-liked member of the Pike Rovers family.”