Northern Ireland football is mourning the loss of Callum McVeigh, a “much-loved” and talented young player who tragically passed away on Christmas Eve. McVeigh, 23, is known for his versatility and technical ability and has earned the respect and admiration of his team-mates at various Northern Ireland clubs. His most recent stint was at Killyleagh FC, where he played a key role in the 13-1 win over Clonduff earlier this month.
Killyleagh FC recognizes the deep sadness that Mr Callum’s family and friends may be experiencing and would like to extend our heartfelt condolences. In a poignant social media post, the club announced: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of one of our players, Callum McVeigh, who passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 23.” Callum joined the club from Knockbreda on November 6th and previously played for Ards and Linfield Swifts.
“Although his time with us was too short, he left a significant and lasting impression. He settled in quickly, started at left-back and showed great dedication, winning the respect and friendship of his team-mates, management and committee alike.”
He added: “Callum’s last appearance for the club came on December 13, when he represented his country in a 13-1 win over Clonduff in the Clarence Cup. It is a moment that we will now remember with great pride and sadness.”
“We will long remember the fun and enjoyment of that night when he joined us for the players’ Christmas party at The Dufferin later that night.
“On behalf of the entire committee, management and playing staff, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to Callum’s friends father Marcus, mother Lisa, brother Ethan and all those who are grieving this unimaginable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.”
They also expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support, sympathy and kindness from the wider football community during this difficult time for the club.
“Callum will always be remembered as a member of our club and will remain in our thoughts forever,” they concluded. His former team, Knockbreda Football Club, also paid tribute to the young player on social media following his tragic death.
“Everyone at Knockbreda Football Club is shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh. Callum left for Killyleagh just a few weeks ago.”
“Callum signed for Knockbreda in 2023 after enjoying success at youth level with Linfield, Portadown and Ards, including a Super Cup representative and a Steel & Sons winners’ medal.
“Callum made 76 appearances for Knockbreda and was a versatile player of quality and technical ability.” Chairman Dave Kane added that Callum was a much loved and popular figure at Knockbreda among his fellow players, supporters and everyone involved at the club.
Captain Peter McDermott expressed the team’s sadness: “We have been devastated since hearing the news of his death. He was a big part of our dressing room and our lives over the last few years. He was a great football player and, more importantly, an even better friend.”
“Our thoughts, love and prayers go out to Callum’s family at this sad time.” Linfield FC, another of Callum’s most talented clubs, wrote: “Linfield FC are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh, who passed away yesterday aged just 23.
“Callum was a valued member of the Linfield Swifts squad that won the Steel and Sons Cup in 2019 and has since progressed into senior football having played for Portadown, Ards, Knockbreda and most recently Killyleagh YC.
“Everyone at Linfield FC would like to extend our sincere condolences to Callum’s family, friends and team-mates, past and present, at this extremely difficult time.”
