Tributes pour in after All-Ireland winning Kilkenny hurler passes away aged 33

RIP.

The Kilmacow clubman won a minor All-Ireland with the Cats in 2010 and an intermediate All-Ireland in 2016.

An avid soccer player as well with Ferrybank and Waterford, he became ill at training last Friday before being transported to Waterford University Hospital.

He passed away surrounded by family, and leaves behind a fiancée and two daughters.

Tributes have since poured in for the talented sportsman.

In a statement, Kilkenny GAA said: "Kilkenny GAA mourns the passing of Luke Harney (Kilmacow). Kilkenny GAA is deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Luke Harney, former Kilkenny hurler and proud Kilmacow clubman.

"Luke was a gifted hurler whose talent and passion shone through from a young age. Luke represented both his club and county with distinction, wearing the black and amber jersey with pride. 

"Among his many achievements, he won an All-Ireland minor hurling championship with Kilkenny in 2010, went on to represent the county at under-21 level, and later added an All-Ireland intermediate hurling medal in 2016.

"At club level with Kilmacow, Luke was a driving force across the grades, helping secure titles at underage and adult levels. 

"He was known not only for his commitment on the field but also for his dedication to the game and the values of our GAA community.

"His loss will be felt greatly in Kilmacow, across Kilkenny, and among the many friends he made through hurling.

"Kilkenny GAA extends its deepest sympathies to Luke’s fiancée Natasha, his daughters Holly and Sofia, his parents Paul and Jacinta, his brothers Gerry, Shane and Jake, his extended family, his many friends, and his clubmates in Kilmacow."

His funeral will take place on Thursday, September 11, and the family have requested donations to the Dillon Quirke Foundation in lieu of flowers.