Car crash claims lives of Mayo footballer and his mother – news – Western People

South Mayo has been plunged into sadness with the news that a young footballer who has represented Mayo at various levels has tragically lost his life in a car crash in Pakistan. Umar Shafiq and his mother Nasreem were both killed in the accident that occurred earlier this week.

Teenager Umar Shafiq, a student at Ballinrobe Community School, made his Mayo Super League debut this season as a goalkeeper with Ballinrobe Town who he represented since U10 level. He had also played for the Mayo League’s underage teams, including appearing at the prestigious Kennedy Cup tournament. More recently, he was the current goalkeeper for Ballinrobe Town ‘B’ team who play in League Two and was also about to start the season with the U18 squad. His Super League debut came in May of this year against Conn Rangers.

In a statement, the Mayo League Management committee said it was saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Ballinrobe Town player Umar Shafiq and his mother Nasreem.

“Umar was an excellent goalkeeper and was named in that position in the Helen Johnson U18 Division Two team of the Year last season,” said the statement, adding that the “League Management committee would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Umar’s family, his teammates and everyone involved with Ballinrobe Town.” 

Umar’s club has paid its own tribute.

“We are absolutely heartbroken for the entire Shafiq family and friends as well as all Umar’s teammates and coaches who held Umar in such high regard.

“Everybody who knew Umar both within our club, the Ballinrobe community and the wider Mayo Football family, as evidenced by the massive numbers of messages of sympathy we have received, knew Umar as a lovely young gentleman who always had a positive outlook on things. We will miss our great friend who was always so enthusiastic, upbeat and an absolute pleasure to be around. Umar, we will never forget you.

“The club along with Ballinrobe Community School are actively working with the family to look at how we as a community can pay our respects in due course and will share information as and when we can.” 

As a mark of respect, Ballinrobe Town’s games have been postponed this weekend.

May Umar and Nasreem both rest in peace.