Latest news with #PontnewynndAFC
The Sun
a day ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Tragedy as popular footballer, 19, dies as club release emotional statement and retire jersey
A "talented" young footballer has suddenly passed away aged just 19 leaving his family and friends "devastated." Pontypool footballer Tristan O'Keefe tragically passed away on Wednesday June 11. 3 His sudden and untimely death left family, friends, supporters and his club reeling. Tristan played over 100 games for Pontnewynnd AFC and played a massive role in their promotion to the Gwent Premier League. As a mark of respect the club is retiring Tristan's number 3 jersey and plan to hang it in the changing rooms. He was described as "kind and humble" by those who knew him with Pontnewynnd AFC releasing an emotional statement following his death. The statement from Pontnewynydd AFC reads: 'It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of one of our own — Tristan O'Keefe. 'Tristan wasn't just a talented footballer — he was a bright light in our club, a kind and humble young man who brought energy, joy, and strength to everyone around him. "Loved by his teammates, respected by his coaches, and cherished by all at Pontnewynydd AFC, Tristan was an integral part of our unforgettable undefeated league campaign — a journey that led us to promotion to the Gwent Premier League. "His presence was felt in every game, every training session, and every moment off the pitch. ' We will never forget you, Tristan. You will always be a part of Pontnewynydd AFC. Forever 19. Forever our Number 3.' 3
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
Popular footballer dies aged 19
Popular footballer dies aged 19 Tributes have been pouring in for much-loved Tristan O'Keefe who was known for his 'kind' and 'humble' personality Tristan O'Keefe has died aged just 19 (Image: O'Keefe family ) A "kind and humble" footballer has died at the age of 19. Tristan O'Keefe, who was described as a "bright light" at the Welsh side he represented dozens of times, died on Wednesday. The death of the talented Pontnewynnd AFC footballer, who was a vital part of the side's undefeated league campaign which secured the team's promotion to the Gwent Premier League, has left his family, friends, teammates, and wider community devastated. The side, based near Pontypool in Torfaen, has announced the retirement of his number three shirt. The jersey will be framed and displayed permanently in the changing rooms as a reminder of his dedication and impact he had on the team. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter here. The full statement from Pontnewynnd AFC reads: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of one of our own – Tristan O'Keefe. "Tristan wasn't just a talented footballer – he was a bright light in our club, a kind and humble young man who brought energy, joy, and strength to everyone around him. "Loved by his teammates, respected by his coaches, and cherished by all at Pontnewynydd AFC, Tristan was an integral part of our unforgettable undefeated league campaign – a journey that led us to promotion to the Gwent Premier League. Article continues below "His presence was felt in every game, every training session, and every moment off the pitch. "As a mark of our deepest respect and in loving memory of Tristan we are retiring the number three shirt – the number he proudly wore for this club. "His jersey will be framed and placed permanently in our changing rooms – a symbol of the incredible impact he made and a reminder that he will always be with us in spirit and in heart. "Our entire club is grieving. No words can express the pain we feel or the loss suffered by those closest to Tristan. To his family and friends we extend our deepest condolences and our unwavering support during this heartbreaking time. "We will never forget you Tristan. "You will always be a part of Pontnewynydd AFC. "Forever 19. Forever our number three." Terry Leonard, a coach at Pontnewyndd AFC who trained Tristan for several years, shared his personal admiration for the player. "He has left a lot of blood, sweat, and tears on this field," Terry wrote, referring to Lasgarn Pitch, where Tristan played more than 100 matches for the club. "He has always given me 100% whenever he wore the jersey." Terry added: "I feel very privileged to have been a big part of his life and can only wish I could have done more. "I am so glad to have shared so many memories with Tristan and I will cherish them forever." To honour Tristan's life a vigil will be held at Lasgarn Pitch – the very place where Tristan spent so much of his time playing the game he loved. The vigil, organised at the request of Tristan's mother, Gemma O'Keefe, will take place on Saturday, June 14, at 3pm. Article continues below Terry added: "Please share this post with everyone so that we can all say goodbye but never forget you Tristan Shane O'Keefe. Always my boy." A GoFundMe campaign to help Tristan's family with funeral costs has so far raised more than £4,000. To donate go here.
