Shock and sadness at passing of Kilkenny All-Ireland winning hurler
September 10, 2025
The late Luke Harney in action for Kilkenny in 2012. ©INPHO/Cathal Noonan.
Kilkenny GAA has led the tributes to former All-Ireland winning hurler Luke Harney, who passed away in hospital on Monday after becoming ill during training last Friday.
Aged just 33, the father-of-two has been described as a “gifted hurler who represented both club and county with distinction.” The Kilmacow clubman won All-Ireland MHC and IHC medals in 2010 and ’16 respectively.
“Kilkenny GAA is deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Luke Harney, former Kilkenny hurler and proud Kilmacow clubman,” the county board tribute read.
“Luke was a gifted hurler whose talent and passion shone through from a young age. Luke represented both his club and county with distinction, wearing the black and amber jersey with pride. Among his many achievements, he won an All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship with Kilkenny in 2010, went on to represent the county at Under-21 level, and later added an All-Ireland Intermediate Hurling medal in 2016.
“At club level with Kilmacow, Luke was a driving force across the grades, helping secure titles at underage and adult levels. He was known not only for his commitment on the field but also for his dedication to the game and the values of our GAA community.
“His loss will be felt greatly in Kilmacow, across Kilkenny, and among the many friends he made through hurling.
“Kilkenny GAA extends its deepest sympathies to Luke’s fiancée Natasha, his daughters Holly and Sofia, his parents Paul and Jacinta, his brothers Gerry, Shane and Jake, his extended family, his many friends, and his clubmates in Kilmacow.
“In lieu of flowers, donations can be made, if desired, to the Dillon Quirke Foundation.”
Kilmacow GAA added: “There are no words that will help at a time like this. Our thoughts are with Tash (his fiancée) and his two little girls and all his family, friends and teammates.
“As a group and a club, we will stay strong together in these worst of times. He was our leader, and we will miss him incredibly.
“All Kilmacow club activity will be postponed this coming week until further notice while we mourn the loss of Luke. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
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