Football Community Mourns Young Player Fionn Dooley Who Died Before 16th Birthday
The football community across Dublin and beyond is coming together to pay tribute to a young player who tragically passed away just before reaching his 16th birthday. Fionn Dooley, a dedicated footballer with Knocklyon United, died peacefully at his home in Rathfarnham on Friday, January 30th, leaving his family, friends, and teammates devastated.
Club Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Brave Centre Back
Knocklyon United Football Club shared the heartbreaking news with their community, describing Fionn as "a fighter who battled with great courage and dignity." The club's official statement expressed their deepest condolences to Fionn's family, including his parents Linda and Chris, brothers Oisín and Callum, and sister Leah.
Kenny Soper, Fionn's manager at the club, remembered the young player as "an outstanding centre back and a real team player" who always stood up for his teammates. Soper emphasized Fionn's passion for football and how deeply he will be missed by everyone who knew him through the sport.
Football Community Unites in Grief
In a powerful show of solidarity and respect, a minute's silence was observed at all Knocklyon United matches over the weekend following Fionn's passing. The tribute extended beyond his own club, with several other football organisations reaching out with messages of support and condolence.
Newlands Castle Park FC expressed their sincere condolences to Fionn's family, friends, and everyone at Knocklyon United, while St Francis FC also shared their thoughts and prayers with all those affected by the young footballer's passing.
Remembering Fionn's Life and Legacy
According to family tributes, Fionn brought "so much fun and laughter" to his friends' lives, and his cherished memories will remain in their hearts forever. The death notice described him as someone who fought his health battle with remarkable courage until the end.
Fionn's funeral arrangements have been announced, with his body lying in repose at Peter Massey Funerals at The Ruah Centre in Ballyroan. A funeral Mass will be held at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Ballyroan, followed by cremation at Mount Jerome Crematorium.
In a touching gesture reflecting Fionn's spirit, the family has requested that instead of flowers, donations be made to Oscar's Kids Ireland in his memory. This charitable choice underscores the community-minded values that Fionn embodied throughout his too-short life.
The outpouring of support from across the football community demonstrates how deeply Fionn touched those around him and how his memory will continue to inspire his teammates and fellow players in Dublin's sporting circles.
