Sale Sharks statement: The tragic death of Liam O’Connor

Gallagher Premiership finalists Sale have issued a statement following the tragic death of Liam O’Connor, their junior academy player who was killed last Friday in Newcastle when struck by a car. “It is with great sadness that Sale Sharks announce the passing of DPP and junior academy player Liam O’Connor,” began the statement.

“Tragically, a car hit Liam late on Friday evening in Newcastle. Liam had just completed his second year at Newcastle University. Liam played for many years in the Heaton Moor M&J Section following on to represent their colts alongside their senior team before heading off to Newcastle University to pursue his dreams of working in the field of medicine.

“Liam won the Heaton Moor player of the season award on multiple occasions and was a consistent matchwinner for the age group he represented. Liam studied at St Ambrose School and played for the 1st XV; he played every representative age group for Lancashire from U13s through to U18s before joining the Sale Sharks developing players programme and then Sharks’ junior academy.

“His excellent rugby career started at Didsbury Toc H, before moving to Heaton Moor, Lancashire and Sale Sharks. During his two years at university, he represented Newcastle Medics. Every one of those teams and its players had a true star and warrior in their team.

“Liam epitomised the spirit of rugby union, and always made his parents and teammates proud of his achievements. Everyone at Sale Sharks is completely heartbroken and our thoughts turn to Liam’s family, Joan, Mike, Sean, and Kathleen. Rest in Peace Liam, from all at Sale Sharks.”