Sports clubs have been issuing tributes to brave youngster Jack Freeney who passed away on Wednesday
15:21, 19 Feb 2026Updated 15:21, 19 Feb 2026
Jack Freeney. (Image: RIP.ie)
Tremendous pain and grief has gripped the community of Bruff, Co. Limerick following the death of teenager, Jack Freeney.
Jack, a talented and dedicated sportsman, was diagnosed with melanoma in his brain. The remarkably brave young man battled his illness with courage and raised tens of thousands of euro for the Cork University Hospital charity.
As a testament to how much youngster Jack loved sport, rugby, soccer and GAA clubs have all paid tribute to him following his passing on Wednesday.
“Bruff RFC are heartbroken to announce the death of our beloved Jack Freeney,” wrote Bruff RFC on social media.
“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,” the club added.
Jack’s death notice on RIP.ie confirmed his cremation service will take place on Friday.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Freeney of Radharc Na Sliabhe, Kilballyowen, Bruff, Co. Limerick in the loving care of Milford Care Centre surrounded by his loving family on 18th February 2026.
“Very sadly missed by his family, mam Ger, dad Paddy, sister Rachael, grandparents Billy and Marie, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and a large circle of friends. May He Rest in Peace.
“Jack will repose at Milford Care Centre, Limerick this Friday evening, 20th February from 4 pm to 7 pm. Cremation service will take place at Shannon Crematorium on Saturday morning at 11 am. Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, can be made here. House private please.”
Jack was a talented rugby, soccer and gaelic footballer. Echoing the sentiments of Bruff RFC, Bruff GAA Club described the youngster as someone who “loved playing with his friends”.
“Bruff GAA Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Freeney.
“Jack played underage football with the club and was joint captain of the team that won the 2023 U17 Div 3 Shield – a wonderful achievement that will always hold a special place in our club’s history. Jack was a quiet, unassuming young man but a real team player who loved playing with his friends.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Jack’s family, his Mam Ger, Dad Paddy, sister Rachael, extended family, friends and teammates. May the memories of family, friendship and sporting times sustain you in these dark days. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.”
Jack was obsessed with rugby and as their statement continued it was clear for all to see how much the youngster loved playing for Bruff RFC.
“Jack was always destined to play for Bruff RFC, living almost directly across the road from the club. His talent was evident from a very young age, and he could be found at the club for hours kicking a ball with his dad Paddy 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.
“Many of you will have learnt of Jack’s story over the last 18 months and there’s not a single heart in our 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!”
The club added: “Paddy, Ger and Rachael, 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.”
Paying tribute to the brave teenager, Holycross AFC said: “The whole community of Bruff and surrounding areas is filled with sadness following the death of young Jack Freeney this week. Jack played with the club for several years and will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
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