Northern Ireland

'Phenomenal' response to foundation set up in memory of Ryan McBride

A foundation in memory of Derry City captain Ryan McBride has been set up following his sudden death last month. Photo by Margaret McLaughlin
A foundation in memory of Derry City captain Ryan McBride has been set up following his sudden death last month. Photo by Margaret McLaughlin A foundation in memory of Derry City captain Ryan McBride has been set up following his sudden death last month. Photo by Margaret McLaughlin

A new foundation set up in memory of Derry city captain Ryan McBride has said there has already been a "phenomenonal" response to the initiative.

The Ryan McBride Foundation aims to "support, assist and inspire young players" of the future and help them achieve their dreams.

It honours the memory of the 27-year-old footballer who died suddenly at his home in the Bluebell Hill Gardens area of Derry last month.

His death came just 24 hours after he had led his club to victory in a match against Drogheda United.

Born and bred in the city, McBride had played for the club since 2011 despite opportunities to transfer to professional football in England.

On the day he died, family and friends said the footballer had went for a nap after training. His partner Mairead became concerned when she was unable to reach him by phone and asked his sister to waken him. He was then found dead.

Almost one month on, his family have now set up the Ryan McBride Foundation with an aim to "help young people to realise their full potential".

It hopes to "support, assist and inspire young players to achieve what Ryan achieved and to assist groups that Ryan supported during his life".

It also plans to work with the first team players of Derry City football club to provide coaching and mentoring of young players on a cross-community basis and provide local clubs with football kits, training gear and equipment.

"Not every young person will have what it takes for a career in sport but it is hoped that the foundation will help to develop them as people and help them make the correct choices in life".

It also plans to develop a Ryan McBride Scholarship for one young player.

A collection was held at last night's Derry City v Finn Harps derby to support the work of the foundation.