To mark the ten-year anniversary of the tragic passing of Nevin Spence, Ulster Rugby have announced they will dedicate the Memorial Stand at Kingspan Stadium, to honour the memory of their former player.
The Nevin Spence Memorial Stand will be unveiled officially on April 26th next, the day Nevin would have turned 33. Nevin along with his father Noel and brother Graham, all passed away in a tragic farm accident on the 15th of September 2012.
Ahead of their Inter-Pro tie with Connacht this coming weekend, Ulster have marked his anniversary to continue his long-lasting legacy at the club, asking supporters also to honour both him, Noel and Graham ahead of kick off this weekend.
Spence was regarded as one of the brightest talents for the Ulstermen and an exciting prospect for Irish rugby, the Ballynahinch club man had played more than 40 times for his home province, as well as winning 11 caps for Ireland U20, before his life was cut tragically short aged 22.
Speaking on how Ulster Rugby are set to mark the 10th anniversary of the passing of Nevin, Ulster Rugby CEO, Jonny Petrie, said:
“With every passing year, we are reminded of what a tragic loss the Spence family, together with the rugby community, suffered ten years ago today. Nevin was a talent that shone bright, both on and off the pitch, and his lasting legacy is an integral part of who we are at Ulster Rugby.
“The Nevin Spence Memorial Stand will recognise that his memory lives on for players, staff and supporters, and is our way of ensuring that he is remembered now, and for generations to come, by all those who visit our home.”
Diarmuid Kearney
Diarmuid Kearney is a freelance Sports Journalist based in Co Kerry. He has more than 5 years experience covering domestic and international soccer for different media organisations, while also working for local and national print and digital organisations covering GAA.