Callum McVeigh, 23, was a “much loved and popular player” who had a “huge part” in the changing room and lives of his teammates, supporters and all associated with the club
Tributes have been pouring in for a “much loved” and gifted young footballer who tragically passed away at the age of 23 on Christmas Eve.
Callum McVeigh, from Co Down, was hailed as a “versatile player with quality and technical ability”, earning the respect and admiration of his teammates at various clubs across Northern Ireland.
Most recently, he played for Killyleagh FC, where he represented the club in a resounding 13-1 victory over Clonduff earlier this month.
In a heartfelt tribute, the club expressed its deepest condolences to Callum’s family and friends, acknowledging their “unimaginable loss”, reports Belfast Live.
A social media post from the club read: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our player, Callum McVeigh, who died on Christmas Eve at the age of 23.
“Callum joined our club on 6th November from Knockbreda, having previously played with Ards and Linfield Swifts.
“Although his time with us was far too short, he made a meaningful and lasting impression. He settled in immediately, showed great commitment, starting at left back and earned the respect and friendship of teammates, management, and committee alike.
“Callum’s final appearance for the club came on December 13, when he represented us in the Clarence Cup fixture against Clonduff with a 13-1 victory – a moment we will now remember with great pride and sadness.
“We will long remember the fun and enjoyment of that evening as he joined us later that night for the players Christmas party at The Dufferin.
“On behalf of the entire committee, management, and playing staff, we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the father Marcus, Mother Lisa and Brother Ethan, Callum’s friends, and all who are grieving this unimaginable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time.
” They also thanked the wider football community for the overwhelming messages of support, sympathy, and kindness received during this difficult time for the club.
“Callum will always be remembered as part of our club and will forever remain in our thoughts,” they concluded. His former team, Knockbreda Football Club, also took to social media to remember the young player after his death.
They said: “All at Knockbreda Football Club are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh. Callum departed for Killyleagh just a few weeks ago. “Callum signed for Knockbreda in 2023 following successful times at youth level with Linfield , Portadown and Ards which included super cup representation and a Steel and Sons winners medal. “Callum went on to make 76 appearances for Knockbreda a versatile player with quality and technical ability.”
Chairman Dave Cain said that Callum was a much loved and popular player at Knockbreda with his fellow players, supporters and all associated with the club.
Captain Peter McDermott expressed the team’s grief and said: “We have been devastated since hearing the news.
“He was a huge part of our changing room and lives over the last few years. He was an excellent footballer and more importantly an even better friend.
“Our condolences, love and prayers to Callum’s family at this sad time.”
Linfield FC, another club where Callum had played, recalled his contribution to their Steel and Sons Cup victory in 2019 alongside current Northern Ireland Internationals Trai Hime and Dale Taylor.
The club posted: “Linfield FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Callum McVeigh, who passed away yesterday at only 23 years of age.
“Callum was a valued member of the Linfield Swifts side that lifted the Steel and Sons Cup in 2019, before progressing into senior football with spells at Portadown, Ards, Knockbreda, and most recently Killyleagh YC.
“Everyone at Linfield FC extends their heartfelt condolences to Callum’s family, friends, and teammates, past and present, at this very difficult time.”
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