'RIP Freya'- Communities shaken by death of talented soccer player (19) after cancer battle

There has been an outpouring of grief after the death of a 19-year-old girl from Dublin on Valentine's Day after battling cancer since childhood.

Freya Fitzpatrick O'Doherty, who was a talented soccer player, has been honoured by all of those who knew her as "a warrior" and "an inspiration".

She passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2025 surrounded by her loving family; mum Emma, dad Aidan, sister Lauren, brother Conleth and her dog Pedro.

Freya will be greatly missed by her family and also by her granny Louise, uncle Simon, aunt Niamh, and cousins Lochlann, Leah and Theo, extended family and many friends and all of those who knew her.

Freya was diagnosed with a highly aggressive brain tumour in April 2018, which was surgically removed and she had undergone chemotherapy. Sadly after a long battle with cancer, Freya passed away.

Freya loved playing football and was team captain of Larkview FC and played for Templeogue Synge Street.

The Irish women's soccer team posted a picture on social media in honour of Freya, with the team holding up an Ireland jersey with Freya's name on it in memory of her.

Oscar Kid's Ireland paid tribute to Freya on an Instagram post saying she was the "toughest cookie going and the most determined and fun teenager, Freya refused to let her illness hold her back, completing her Leaving Cert and starting college while she faced often debilitating symptoms. Cancer never stopped her from living life her terms and we were constantly astonished by her strength. She was a force of nature and will always remain so".

"Freya walked amongst us for all too short a time. Her beautiful smile, her warrior spirit and the love that she unleashed in this world will never die. I feel blessed to have known her.

My deepest condolences to you Emma, Aidan, Lauren, Conleth and extended family at this time of heartbreak and sorrow," a tribute said.

"Emma, Aidan, Conleth, Lauren & all of Freya’s Family. Freya was an inspiration to anybody who met her, she was a wonderful person to have involved in the Academy as a player & coach. You have the deepest sympathies of all who were involved with the MGL Academy. RIP Freya," a tribute said.

"Emma, Aidan, Lauren & Conleth my deepest sympathy on the untimely passing of your beautiful warrior daughter and sister Freya. Freya was robbed as were you all. I know no words can express the loss and giant size holes in your hearts. Thinking of you all at this time and forever in your hearts. What Freya achieved in her short life is beyond amazing," another tribute said.

"Thank you Emma and Aidan for sharing your inspirational Freya with our club Larkview FC she was our Captain and leader and brought Girls football back to “The View”. Thank you Freya we will celebrate your memory," Mick Carroll from Larkview FC said.

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"This is truly heartbreaking news. These pictures are taken at our clubhouse when we met Freya and all her wonderful teammates and supporters in England. She was a truly wonderful person and a top top class player. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and the thoughts of all involved at Flitwick Eagles Football Club are with you all… Shine bright Freya!!" Larkview FC said.