I was saddened to hear of the death of Irish fan James Nolan in Poland this week. Most fans had heard he was reported missing even before the half-time announcement at the Italy game on Monday. Part of you hoped he went off on a little misadventure and just lost contact with his friends. I can only hope his family and friends don't dwell on regret and instead find comfort in knowing he went to Poland on what must have been the trip of a lifetime for someone so young at 21. 21 short years but I'm sure he packed in some of his most memorable days yet while in Poland.
A reported 30,000 Irish travelled to Poland in the last two weeks. There was a bit of an extended clan feeling about anyone from home that you met out there, whether you had known them before or not, and I think for many of the fans that travelled there will be a feeling of a mate of a mate has been lost.
It was touching to hear of the response from locals in the town of Bydgoszcz where James went missing. An Irish flag flew at half-mast in front of the city hall and hundreds of residents gathered along the town's river to show their sympathy.
In a letter to UEFA President Michel Platini, the Mayor of Bydgoszcz requested that a tribute be made at one of the games - "Let us pay tribute to the Irish – the best supporters of the tournament – and let it be a day of solidarity with those who are the most affected by this untimely death."
It's a tragic loss for James' family and friends but I'm sure they will take comfort in the wonderful support from the people of Bydgoszcz and Poland. It's a tragedy that has further strengthened the bond and respect between our countries. RIP mate.
A reported 30,000 Irish travelled to Poland in the last two weeks. There was a bit of an extended clan feeling about anyone from home that you met out there, whether you had known them before or not, and I think for many of the fans that travelled there will be a feeling of a mate of a mate has been lost.
 |
| Candles placed in a sign of mourning at the river in Bydgoszcz |
In a letter to UEFA President Michel Platini, the Mayor of Bydgoszcz requested that a tribute be made at one of the games - "Let us pay tribute to the Irish – the best supporters of the tournament – and let it be a day of solidarity with those who are the most affected by this untimely death."
It's a tragic loss for James' family and friends but I'm sure they will take comfort in the wonderful support from the people of Bydgoszcz and Poland. It's a tragedy that has further strengthened the bond and respect between our countries. RIP mate.
No comments:
Post a Comment