Shannon Notes Weekending November 15th 2008

It's said at times that sport transcends life, but when the two combine in tragic circumstances, its then that life, and the value we hold on life is to the fore.

Limerick should be celebrating this week. Last Saturday we had an International rugby match in Thomond Park, next week the All Blacks come to town. However the spectre of death looms large around the town. The deluge of rain that accompanied the match last Saturday was a precursor to the veil of darkness that descended over the city on Sunday as the shattering news that a young, innocent man was gunned down. Shane Geoghegan was a man that we knew well in Shannon. He played with us until he transferred to Garryowen when he was U/20. He was a regular adversary on the field and was highly respected by those that played with him and against him. A pillar of natural law abiding society where he stood out as an affable gentleman. Only a few hours prior to his untimely death, Shane lined out as captain of Garryowen thirds in Coonagh against our own thirds. It was a game between two unbeaten sides and even in defeat, Shane was dignified and represented Garryowen with the decorum associated with the club.

Rugby clubs throughout the country unite in the utter repulsion and needless death of Shane. We stand united against the scourge of society that that has brought misery to Shane's family and friends; we stand as one in the grief of a community. Rugby has always been like an extended family in Limerick; we may not always get on, we may not always have the same agenda, but the differences we have, the minutia that makes us different from each other are forgotten in these tragic, needless circumstances. I hope that the outpouring of support from all quarters is of some small comfort to Shane's family. No words will bring Shane back, but what words can do is comfort and keep his memory alive.

Shane Geoghegan and the decent values and morals of life that he stood for will never be forgotten. Shannon RFC mourns you. May you rest in peace.
--------------------------------------------------------

The second's game was cancelled due to the adverse weather and this Saturday they are away to Bruff in the league with a 2pm start.

Our U/20's had a fantastic bonus point win over Bruff and played much better than the previous week. This Saturday they are away to UCC.

The U/14's were beaten when UL/Bohs scored a last minute try in their league game. This was another close game between two excellent teams and great credit is due to the lads for coming from 19-0 down. Our only other game not affected by the weather saw the U/13 blacks have a great win over UL/ Bohs Hawks by a hefty margin.

There are no underage games this weekend, but members of the senior squad will be in Coonagh holding coaching clinics on Sunday Morning.