The world of sport pays warm tributes to Nevin

Ireland captain, Brian O’Driscoll, commented, “Devastating news about Nevin Spence, his dad and brother. What a wonderful talent he was. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”

New Zealand outhalf Dan Carter, said: “Such sad news, my thoughts go out to his family.”

Leinster and Ireland outhalf, IRUPA chairman, Jonathan Sexton, said: “This is a sad day for Irish rugby and a particularly sad day for Nevin’s Ulster team-mates. I speak on behalf of all professional players in Ireland in sending our prayers and thoughts to the Spence family and to all of those closely associated with the family.

“Nevin was a good man, a fantastic young talent and a great ambassador for the sport. He will be sorely missed by the entire rugby community.”

Philip Gregg, Ballynahinch RFC chairman, said: “Nevin was one of those guys who gave everything and asked for nothing in return. Graham also played with the club for a while about seven or eight years ago. All members of the club are thinking about the family circle in these tragic circumstances which are more than any of us can imagine.”

South Africa prop BJ Botha, a former Ulster team mate, stated: “So very sad and shocked to hear the news about Nevin Spence, his father and brother. You will be sorely missed my friend.”

Former world champion boxer Barry McGuigan tweeted: “My deepest heartfelt sympathy to his family.”

Leinster and Ireland fullback, Rob Kearney, said: “Nevin was a lovely guy who won’t be forgotten - thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP Nevin.”

Former Ospreys, Wales and Lions winger, Shane Williams said: “A tragic loss. A class act on the field also. RIP.”

The English and Australian Rugby Union’s also paid tribute, with the Scottish Rugby Union commenting: “Thinking of all at Ulster Rugby today after the tragic death of their young centre Nevin Spence and his father and brother in a farming accident.”

World number one golfer, Rory McIlroy said: “Just heard the tragic news of Nevin Spence and his family. Makes you cherish every day you have on this earth. Rest in peace. Stand up for the Ulstermen.”

Meanwhile, Tyrone GAA, said: “Tonight we stand shoulder to shoulder with our friends in Ulster Rugby. God bless the family and friends of Nevin Spence, his brother and his dad.”

Aogan O Fearghail, Ulster GAA Council President, said: “All of Ulster GAA send their deep condolences to the Spence family on their terrible loss.”

International rugby referee Nigel Owens said: “Just heard about the tragic death of Nevin Spence and his dad and brother. So, so sad. My sincere and deepest sympathy to his mum and family.”

Referring to Nevin’s famous try at Bath, Gloucester and Samoa star, Eliota Sapolu, said: “RIP Nevin Spence and family. Remember him making us look stupid at the Rec (Bath v Ulster in 2010). What a talent. Teach ‘em some rugby tricks up there ace.”