Tributes have been paid this week to James Harrison, the teenager who lost his life in an accident in Co Kerry last weekend.
James Harrison was the eldest son of Matthew Harrison and Máire Ní Choileáin of Salthill. The 17-year-old was a student at Colaiste Iognaid, where his father also teaches.
James was a popular sportsman, and was a member of Salthill/Knocknacarrra GAA and Knocknacarra Football Club, and had also played with Galwegians RFC mini and youth section.
The young man slipped and fell from a cliff at Bull’s Head near Dingle, while walking with his family on Sunday.
Local sporting clubs paid tribute to him on social media following the tragic news, with Salthill/Knocknacarra GAA describing him as “a star both on and off the field, a player with great attitude, ability and enthusiasm who always gave his all. He will be sadly missed by everyone.”
Galwegians RFC described James as “a leader on and off the pitch”.
“James was a wonderful young man who will be very deeply missed by all his many friends in Galwegians,” the club said in a statement on Facebook.
Knocknacarra GAA Club also paid tribute to the talented young man. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Maura, Matthew, Daniel and Aoife,” the club stated. “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.”
James’ mother Maire is a native of west Kerry and the family have strong links with the area, where many local organisations have also played tribute to him.
James Harrison’s funeral took place in Galway yesterday. The family have asked for donations, if desired, to RNLI and Dingle Coast and Rescue in lieu of flowers.
