Talented young sportsman Jack McCoy laid to rest

HE was known as ‘the Moneyglass Messi’.

From a well known sporting family and aged just 23, the whole Antrim area has been left devastated by the sudden death of Jack McCoy, a prodigious talent both on the GAA and soccer fields.

He was the beloved son of Oliver and Ursula, much loved brother of Molly and Emily, loving boyfriend of Claire and dear grandson of Theresa.

Jack won an Antrim Intermediate Championship title with St Ergnat’s GAC Moneyglass in 2020 and featured in both semi-final wins over St Paul’s and the final against Dunloy and was also on the scoresheet in those two wins.

He remained an integral part of their success in recent season and, by the time Moneyglass won the All-County Division Two title in 2022, he had switched from corner-forward to the half-back line - although an ACL injury curbed his season last year.

Jack’s funeral took place last Wednesday in Our Lady of Lourdes Church Moneyglass, with burial immediately afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

His father Oliver is a cousin of legendary jockey Tony McCoy, who is originally from Moneyglass and also has strong connections to the St Ergnat's club.

With his home, his GAA club and the church where he was laid to rest all within a short distance of one another, it was no surprise that St Ergnats opened their car park for those attending Jack’s wake.

The community centre was also be available as a waiting area for visitors to the McCoy house and stewards were also on hand to assist.

A statement on behalf of players, members and club officers said: “We are profoundly sorry to hear the very sad news of the passing of our club colleague Jack.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to his parents Oliver and Ursula, sisters Molly and Emily, his girlfriend Claire, his entire family circle and his huge circle of friends wherever they may be.

“Jack was an esteemed senior footballer who won many honours and, more so, a great friend and character to all in our Club

“He will be sorely missed by everyone in Moneyglass and will remain forever in our thoughts.

“Mary Queen of the Gael pray for him.”

Jack worked as an Engineering Scientist at Glenbio Ltd in Antrim and played for a number of soccer teams in the borough.

A spokesman for FC Antrim said: “Everyone at the club is absolutely heart broken to hear of the very sad news about our close friend and team mate Jack McCoy who is sadly no longer with us.

“On the pitch Jack had it all! Skill, speed, desire, his work rate was second to none and he would have run through a brick wall for the team.

“Off the pitch Jack was one of those people that you couldn’t not get on with, he was a great friend to all and he was always up for the craic and a bit of banter.

“We really are struggling to find the right words to do Jack justice. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jacks family and friends at this very difficult time.

“Rest in peace Wee Man! You will always have a place in the FC family!”

Randalstown Ramblers FC also paid tribute, saying: “Everyone associated with the Randalstown Ramblers would like to express our absolute devastation at the passing of former player Jack McCoy.

“Jack began playing with the majority of our team at the age of 16 and it was clear he was a talented player. His ability on the ball and footballing brain were second to none, winning back to back player of the month awards in our title winning season.

“At this time, it is important to remember how brilliant Jack was off the pitch as well as on it. His wittiness and banter was unrivalled and his infectious smile and laugh will never be forgotten.

“Jack was truly one a kind and everyone at the Ramblers would like to offer our condolences to Ursula, Oliver, Molly and Emily as well as his wider family circle, friends and teammates at this time.

“Jack, you truly touched the lives of so many people and your legacy will live on for many years. Once a rambler, always a rambler. Rest in peace.”

There were warm words from as far away as Glenravel.

Con Magees GAC said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Jack McCoy from St Ergnats GAC Moneyglass Jack was a talented footballer who tormented us on numerous occasions from juvenile to senior as he picked off many scores.

“Rivalry on the field was never taken beyond the white lines and it's at times like this that the large Antrim GAA family come together in the shared grief that one so talented has been taken from us all too early.

“To his family circle we extend our sympathies and to his girlfriend Claire who has represented our Club and County so well, we share your pain. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Antrim LGFA also wrote: “Antrim Ladies Gaelic Football wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jack McCoy, brother of former county players Emily and Molly and boyfriend of former county player Clare Emerson, and to the whole community of St Ergnat’s GAC Moneyglass.”

Jack’s primary school also announced the passing of their former pupil.

Millquarter Primary School said it was ‘sad news’.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the sudden passing of one of our former pupils, Jack McCoy. He was a cherished member of our school community during his time with us.

“Jack was known for his great sporting abilities, witty humour and heart of gold. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Oliver, Ursula, Molly, Emily and his entire extended family and loved ones during this difficult time.

“Please keep Jack and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Our Lady of Lourdes Pray for them.”

And GAA website Saffron Gael also issued a statement.

They said: “We at the Saffron Gael and the wider GAA community are deeply saddened to hear of the untimely death of St. Ergnat’s Moneyglass footballer, Jack McCoy.

“Jack was a member of the St. Ergnat’s team who won the 2020 Intermediate football Championship when they defeated Dunloy at Dunsilly.

“Jack played a pivotal part in the St. Ergnat’s victory that day and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him in the GAA community and the wider community.

“Jack was laid to rest following Requiem Mass in Our Lady Of Lourdes Church Moneyglass.

“To his parents Oliver and Ursula, sisters Emily and Molly, girlfriend Claire, the wider family community and his friends and playing colleagues at St. Ergnat’s G.A.C., we at the Safffron Gael extend our deepest sympathies.”

The family have asked that donations in lieu of flowers be made to Air Ambulance NI.