Shock and sadness at passing of ladies footballer in Australia
May 01, 2025
A general view of footballs.
Tributes have been pouring in following the sudden passing of a talented ladies football player from Co. Louth in Australia.
An evening of remembrance took place yesterday for 24-year-old Marie Claire Rogers from Togher who passed away in a Sydney hospital earlier this week following a short illness. She had flown out to Australia two weeks previously for a holiday and to visit her sister Heather. An online fundraiser to support with travel costs for her family and boyfriend as they accompany Marie Claire home has raised well over €100,000, far exceeding the €20,000 target.
A nurse by profession, Marie Claire played ladies football with her local Naomh Fionnbarra club and also represented Louth at underage level. Her father Andrew is a well-known ladies football referee in the Wee County.
"Our club and community are beyond shocked and saddened at the sudden passing of our cherished club member and friend Marie Claire Rogers in Sydney, Australia,” Naomh Fionnbarra said in a heartfelt tribute.
"As her many friends, team mates, and colleagues come to terms with the devastating news, we offer our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the extended Rogers and Osbourne families both at home and abroad.
"Marie Claire's passing has brought a wave of sorrow and grief across the community. Offers and messages of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated."
Louth LGFA posted online: “Marie Claire is the cherished daughter of our LGFA Referee Andrew Rogers and sister of the Naomh Fionnbarra secretary Frances, whom many of you will know. Not only for their kindness, but unwavering commitment to ladies football over the years.
“Marie Claire left for Sydney to visit her sister Heather and took unwell. Only 23 years young, she was a carer by nature qualifying as a nurse. She played county football at a young age and has been a valued, loved and cherished team-mate of the Naomh Fionnbarra and St Anne's GFG club since.
"All of whom will be feeling the devastation of this news and for time to come.”
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