Tributes to two rugby pals who drowned in quarry

Two teenage friends who drowned in a disused quarry have been described as brothers in arms.
By The Newsroom
Published 1st Jun 2018, 21:27 BST
Updated 19th Jun 2018, 10:38 BST
Friends, Jack Kenneally (left) and Shay Moloney, both 15, who drowned while swimming in the quarry lake at Knockanean on the outskirts of Ennis, Co Clare. Photo: Ennis RFC/PA WireFriends, Jack Kenneally (left) and Shay Moloney, both 15, who drowned while swimming in the quarry lake at Knockanean on the outskirts of Ennis, Co Clare. Photo: Ennis RFC/PA Wire
Friends, Jack Kenneally (left) and Shay Moloney, both 15, who drowned while swimming in the quarry lake at Knockanean on the outskirts of Ennis, Co Clare. Photo: Ennis RFC/PA Wire

Jack Kenneally and Shay Moloney, both 15, died after getting into difficulties when swimming in the quarry lake at Knockanean, Co Clare on Thursday afternoon.

The bodies of the boys, who were from Ennis, were found under the water after an intensive search operation.

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They had been swimming with other young people in good weather when tragedy struck. They were airlifted to University Hospital Limerick but later pronounced dead.

The teenagers both played rugby for Ennis RFC.

The club paid an emotional tribute in a statement yesterday. “Jack and Shay. Our brothers in arms,” the club said. “Our warriors when the going got tough. Our leaders when the pressure came on. Our pride when they took the field. Our joy when they lit it up off the field. Our devilment when it all got too serious. Our gentlemen always. Our terrible, terrible loss.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Kenneally and Moloney families and also to the friends and team mates of these two wonderful boys. May they rest in peace.”

Jack was a second-year student at Ennis Community College. Principal Brian O’Donoghue said: “This is a terrible tragedy for the Kenneally family, our school and our community. Jack was a talented rugby player and played for Ennis RFC. He was so proud of his achievements as we all were. Jack will be greatly missed by his fellow students and teachers.

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“Offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated.”

He said the school had implemented its critical incident management plan, with support being offered to staff and pupils.

Shay attended nearby St Flannan’s College in Ennis.

In a statement, the school said: “Our thoughts are with Shay’s family and friends. Shay was a third-year student and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”