Ballina rugby is in mourning following the death of young player John Brennan.
The Co Mayo man was described as a 'treasured member' of the club in glowing tributes following the sad news of his passing.
A Ballina RFC statement explained 'a deep feeling of loss' among the community after the death of a beloved club man.
Club Chairman Alan Rowe paid a poignant tribute, saying: "On behalf of myself, our President, Dr Blaise Brunker and everyone in Ballina RFC, I want to send our deepest sympathies to Mary, Niall, Niall, Mark, Paul and all John's lovely family.
"We honestly cannot believe it and it's hard to find words right now. John was such a treasured member of the club, an integral cog in a group who were destined for true greatness on and off the rugby pitch.
"His death has cast a dark cloud over Ballina and we must all stand together now, alongside his family and support them in any way we can. May he rest in peace."
Club vice-president Deirdre Whyte added: "John was a lovely pleasant lad to deal with both on and off the pitch at Ballina Rugby Club.
"He will be very sadly missed by all his team mates and friends at the club."
The funeral service will be held at St Muredach's Cathedral on Monday, September 14.
