Ennis Rugby club have paid a touching tribute to two teenagers who drowned in Co Clare on Thursday after they got into difficulty while swimming in a lake in a quarry.
Jack Kenneally (15) and Shay Moloney (15)Â were among a group of teenagers who had been swimming in the abandoned quarry near Knockanean when one of the boys got into difficulty while swimming from one bank to another before his friend swam out to help him before he also found himself in trouble.
A major rescue operation was quickly launched but the boys were believed to be under water for 30 minutes before their bodies were eventually recovered with the assistance of a local man who brought diving equipment to the scene.
Both Kenneally and Moloney were members of Ennis Rugby and the club posted a solemn tribute to both players following their passing.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone in Irish Rugby are with the family and friends of Jack and Shay and everyone in Ennis Rugby Club and the wider community.
Friends forever, may they Rest In Peace. https://t.co/CRwthfs8Cv— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) June 1, 2018
Ennis Rugby President Richard Murphy said that both boys were big characters and that they were the heartbeat of the club’s U15 team.
“They were the engine of that team,” said Murphy.
“They had great success. They were lovely guys. Really polite, really respectful and there was always a bit of mischief lurking around the corner with them.
“They were great guys to light up a room. Jack was quick smart and Shay just couldn’t stop smiling.”
Jack’s sister Katie also paid tribute to her brother and said that he will be forever missed by those who knew him.
“I am actually lost for words in this moment,” wrote Katie.
“All I can say is you be forever missed and always loved . You were the most amazing little brother and we are all so so devastated to say the least rest in peace bro we all love you soo soo much.”
