IRISH League Football is in mourning this evening after news of the sudden passing of referee Keith Kennedy.
He was one of the most well-known referees in Irish League football but ha sadly passed away at the age of 33.
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The cause of his death remains unknown at this time.
Mr. Kennedy, who started his refereeing career in 2007, had been officiating in the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) for over a decade.
He was also a FIFA official and widely recognised amongst the football community in on the island of Ireland.
Mr Kennedy has officiated several local matches during the 2024 campaign to date.
Mr Kennedy had refereed the 2017 Irish Cup final, he went on to call it the most it “the biggest fixture for any official in Northern Ireland.”
He has also worked as a match-day venue data coordinator for Uefa club and national competitions.
Fans and NIFL teams have taken to social media this evening as the paid tribute to the late referee.
Glentoran FC wrote: “Everyone at Glentoran would like to express our deep sadness and regret in hearing the news of Keith Kennedy‘s sudden passing.
“Our sympathy at this awful time is with all of Keith’s family, friends and colleagues. RIP.”
Linfield Chairman Ron McGivern penned: “Such sad news this evening to hear of the sudden passing of local referee Keith Kennedy.
“Gone far too soon, thoughts and prayers with his family and friends.”
While one fan wrote: “RIP to IFA referee Keith Kennedy, from Lisburn, who passed away whilst travelling in Colombia. Awful news to hear.”
Cliftonville FC also posted: Cliftonville Football Club are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Keith Kennedy.
“We extend our sympathies to Keith’s family and friends as well as his colleagues in the refereeing fraternity at this most difficult time.”
He will be remembered as one of the prominent referees in the region, whose contribution to the sport extended beyond the matches he officiated.