Rugby community rallies for talented player after ‘devastating’ diagnosis

The rugby community has rallied to help a former Limerick player, after he received a “devastating” diagnosis.

A former player for Young Munster RFC, Sean Rigney had recently “made his mark” on Sydney’s rugby scene, before his journey took a devastating turn.

Originally from Ballinagar in Co Offaly, the young man recently fell ill and was hospitalised. Rapidly, his condition deteriorated, as he was diagnosed with MRSA, a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus - a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This led to the need for open-heart surgery. 

To help Sean on his road to recovery, a fundraiser has been organised by his friends and teammates. 

When he learned the news, his friend and former teammate, Conor Phillips, was shocked. 

"I was really shocked yesterday when I found out about what happened. I really, really feel for him, he's so far away from home and he's just starting a new venture. Everyone is thinking about him and everyone's wishing him well and I've no doubt that he'll recover and be back fit and healthy and playing rugby again as soon as possible," said Conor. 

The first time they met, the two players clicked. Perhaps because when Sean walks into a room, "everyone is drawn to him". 

“The first thing about me and Rigney is that we're completely polar opposites but the first time we met, we just clicked straight away. He has that ability, when he walks into the room, everyone is drawn to him. He’s just such a big character, just really funny and thoughtful. A proper gentle giant and an unbelievable operator on the pitch as well," said Conor. 

"I was delighted when I heard that he was going to Australia because he came down from Offaly to Limerick and made it his home really. He got into the community and the place so well."

Organised by Alan Fitzgerald of the New South Wales Rugby League, the fundraiser was set up to help the young player face "challenging road to recovery". 

“Sean Rigney, a talented rugby player from Ireland, recently made his mark on the rugby scene in Sydney, Australia, joining the Southern Districts Rugby Club for the prestigious Shute Shield Rugby competition. His impact on the team was immediate, promising a bright season ahead,” said Alan Fitzgerald.

“Sean faces a challenging road to recovery, far from home and family. The financial strain of medical expenses, coupled with the inability to work during his illness and recovery, is heartbreaking,” he explained.

Now, Sean’s friends have reached out to the rugby community and beyond, to ask for support.

“Your donations will provide crucial assistance to Sean during this difficult time, helping cover medical costs and living expenses as he focuses on regaining his health,” he added.

You can donate to the fundraiser here.