THE funeral of a 13-year-old boy who died after being struck on the head with a sliotar while playing at school is due to take place tomorrow.
Harry Byrne from Gowran, Co Kilkenny, who has been described as a promising young hurler, collapsed after being hit at St Kieran’s College on Monday.
He was rushed to hospital but died on Tuesday.
Gardaí are treating his death as a tragic accident.
In a funeral notice, his heartbroken family said "our dear Harry left us suddenly and unexpectedly".
It added that his death was "deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents Fergal and Annette, his adoring brothers and sister Jake, Aimee and Sam" and wider family circle.
In a statement, St Kieran’s College said it "deeply regrets that a tragic accident happened at lunchtime yesterday (Monday) involving a young student of our school.
"The accident occurred while the students were playing normally.
"This is a terrible tragedy for his family, friends, parish and all in our school community. You will understand the need for privacy at this time.
"Prayers and offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated."
Numerous tributes have also been paid to the teenager, who was a member of Kilkenny RFC's under-14 team. The club wrote on social media that they were "hollow with sadness at the heartbreaking and tragic news".
"A fantastic young boy with a larger than life character, his memory will live on amongst his team mates, coaches and friends," it said.
Ciaran Phelan, vice chairman of Young Irelands GAA club in Gowran, said "Harry was the loveliest chap you could meet".
"His enthusiasm, his smile and manners...everything about Harry stood out and he was a credit to his family and a credit to his club," he told RTÉ's Today with Claire Byrne.
He said Harry was making "real progress" at hurling and had won two under-13 county championships and recently been selected for football trials at Kilkenny College.
Requiem Mass is due to take place at the Church of the Assumption, Gowran tomorrow at 11am followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
