TWO Leaving Cert pupils who died on a Greek island have been described by their former school principal as “bright, sporting, academic” young men.
Tributes were led by Tim Kelleher, principal of St Michael’s College, as the Dublin school mourns the loss of 18-year-olds Andrew O'Donnell and Max Wall, who tragically died on their Leaving Cert holiday.
Mr Kelleher said the boys’ friends have been “traumatised” by the tragedy on the island of Ios.
Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland, he said: "We are heartbroken.
"We have a very tight-knit community and these are two fantastic young men with their lives ahead of them.
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"Bright, sporting academic men… who were looking forward to this trip for months and on end."
Mr Kelleher said a book of condolences will be open a the school from today.
It is expected that many past and present pupils and their families will pay tribute to the two young men.
The principal described the late Andrew O’Donnell as being a “fantastic young man, great sportsman, fantastic footballer”, a “huge supporter of the school” and “academically bright”.
He added: “Similarly, Max was a very bright young man. Fantastic sportsman as well, passionate about his rugby and academically very bright also.”
Mr Kelleher said that the group who went to Greece together are “very tight-knit", and highlighted the tremendous heartache they are all facing.
'EVERY PARENT'S NIGHTMARE'
Andrew is understood to have gone missing on Friday and his body was later found by a cliff.
Just hours after his death was confirmed yesterday, the news emerged of the death of his classmate, Max.
Mr Kelleher added: “So, I think there are hundreds and hundreds of families this morning plunged into deep, deep sadness because of what has occurred. And again we are reeling with it.
“It's exactly the nightmare that every parent dreads when group holidays and big groups of children go away.
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“You just don't want to get the call to say your child is missing, but two of our families have had that call and we are devastated for them and our hearts are broken and our sympathy goes to them all.”
The school's counselling services will be available over the entire summer break, while the Department of Education is also offering support for students.
Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said representatives from the embassy in Athens are assisting heartbroken students on the ground in Ios.
The Fianna Fail leader said: “My deepest sympathies to the families of Andrew O’Donnell and Max Wall on the very sad loss of their beloved sons.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all of the St. Michael’s College community, their friends and classmates.
“The Embassy of Ireland in Athens is providing consular support, and a consular officer is on the ground in Ios.
“Anyone seeking consular assistance can contact the Embassy at +30 210 723 2771 or DFA Consular on 014082527.”
'DARKEST DAY'
The former President of St Michael’s College Union, Tom McCormack, described yesterday as the “darkest day” in the history of the school.
In a statement yesterday, the school said: “We have learned of the tragic passing of Andrew O’Donnell, a member of our recently graduated class of 2023.
“Andrew was not only a popular classmate and friend, but a proud and committed member of our football team.
"He was kind to those around him, honest in all of his endeavours and a great brother to Rory (transition year).
“Andrew will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
They added: “Max was a constant source of positivity, encouragement and fun for all of those around him.
“He was extremely popular with staff and students alike, and a fantastic supporter of our teams during the various cup campaigns (as well as a great brother to past pupil Charlie).
“Our thoughts are with Max’s family at this awful time and with his friends who have experienced such shocking loss over the last 24 hours.”
Old Belvedere Rugby Club have also told how they have been left "deeply saddened".
Mini Rugby Chairman Nick Fingleton wrote on Facebook: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the devastating news of the passing of Andrew O’Donnell and Max Wall over the weekend.
"Our deepest sympathies and condolences go to Bebhinn, Gavin and Rory at this time.
"Both Andrew and Rory are former mini’s players, and their parents Bebhinn and Gavin were very involved in the minis for several years.
"We hope they find the strength and courage to deal with the incredible sorrow at this time.
"We further extend our sympathies to the family and friends of Max Wall who also passed away on what should have been a joyous and celebratory holiday for both boys.
"Our thought and prayers are with both families, friends, and classmates in St. Michaels College as they come to terms with this tragedy.
"Two young lives gone too soon. Rest in Peace Andrew and Max."
