Tributes have been pouring in for the sad passing of 14-year-old Leona Harper in the Creeslough explosion, with a book of condolences available to be signed at Letterkenny Rugby Club this evening.
Letterkenny Rugby Club last night paid tribute to the schoolgirl who they described as “an important part” of their under-14 team.
“We are heartbroken to say our worst fears have been confirmed. Leona Harper tragically lost her life yesterday in Creeslough,” the club said in a statement.
They offered condolences to her parents, siblings and teammates. “There are no words that feel strong enough at a moment of deep sorrow such as this,” the club added.
In response, the teenager’s father Hugh posted: “The past 24 hours have been nothing short of hell. “Unfortunately Leona was in the explosion in Creeslough and she didn’t survive… along with nine others.
“Knowing that we have the support of the club and its member offers us huge support. Thank you. “Leona loved rugby, although this year she was taking time out for boxing. But her first love was Letterkenny Rugby Club.”
The club will open its clubhouse to allow people to come and pay their respects and reflect on the events that have affected the community and so many families in such a tragic way. The doors will be open between 5pm and 7pm where a book of condolences for the Harper family will be there to sign.
Speaking on RTÉ’s This Week, chairperson of the youth section at Letterkenny RFC, Jeremy Worth, said everyone at the club are all in a “complete state of shock” to hear that one of their own members died in the Creeslough explosion.
Mr Worth said Leona’s coach described her as being “fiercely competitive” and said it was “clear she was developing into a fantastic young player”.
He said Leona’s teammates will be “struggling very much” to come to terms with what has happened.
A boxer and rugby player, Leona was also a big Liverpool FC fan. And the Liverpool Supporters Club in Donegal took to social media to pay their tributes to Leona.
One of the victims of the tragedy in Cresslough Co Donegal was Leona Harper. Leona was a massive LFC fan and today should have been a day to enjoy with her family and dad Hugh with LFC taking on Arsenal. Our thoughts are with all in this very difficult time. @LFC @Arsenal YNWA pic.twitter.com/s5wuTho82G
— LFC Donegal (@lfcdonegal) October 9, 2022
And Rugby Clubs from across Donegal and the entire country have been paying their respects at the sad passing of Leona.
