17/10/2025
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of John Kirby, who tragically died in Austin, Texas, following an accident last week.
John was a much-loved member of the Blackrock College RFC family, and his loss has been felt profoundly across the club and all teams.
I first met John in the summer of 2019 during pre-season training. Immediately I was drawn to his infectious personality and big smile. He was charismatic, witty and very popular.
From the moment he pulled on the Rock jersey, he embodied everything our club stands for, commitment, friendship, and heart. He was a talented player, a dedicated teammate, and above all, a guy who brought joy to everyone around him.
I will always remember him asking myself and Blanes one evening if we had noticed him throwing into the lineout at training that night and how he good he was at it. Blanes chuckled and replied that he had seen him. Kirby jovially replied with "took you f*****n long enough to notice though"!
John had that special kind of presence. A big, infectious smile and a quick sense of humour that could lift the whole dressing room. Whether it was during training on a horrible wet Tuesday night or over a pint in the clubhouse, he had a way of making people laugh and feel included. He was the sort of teammate you were always happy to see walk through the door.
Even after life took him far from Stradbrook, Johnโs love for the club never faded. He stayed in touch with old teammates, kept up with the results, and spoke often of the great memories heโd made here. That loyalty and affection for Blackrock was pure & genuine.
John was more than a teammate; he was a friend to so many. His kindness, and sense of fun left a mark on everyone who knew him.
After his graduation and before departing for the USA, John joined me to work in Mint. He was a very popular member of staff, and would above and beyond on day to day basis. He jumped in to any task with great excitement. The word No, wasn't in his vocabulary.
We waved him off in early March with envy as he headed off on his year abroad. Never did we think he wouldn't return. We are heart broken.
