The number
of people who came was overwhelming and included rugby faces both past and
present. Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll and many of his Leinster team-mates
were in attendance as well as Paul O’Connell and his Munster cohorts. Former
Ulster winger Timoci Nagusa was also given leave from his duty with Montpellier
to be in attendance.
The
service itself was very poignant and emotional. Rory Best gave a very emotional
speech in Nevin’s memory and included two of Nevin’s favourite jokes to tell
around the training ground as well as his tips on love and health. It is clear
that Spence’s death affected him as a friend, not just as a colleague.
Johann
Muller and Paul Marshall both read passages from the Bible – Psalm 27: 1-6;
13-14 and John 14: 1-6; 25-27 respectively. Two passages which remind us that
the LORD is always with us and death is not the end, but simply the beginning
of a new life in Christ.
The
service was led by Ulster chaplain, the Reverend Andrew Thomson, who referred
to Philippians 3: 7-11 where Paul considers everything he has achieved on Earth
as nothing compared to ‘…the surpassing
greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my LORD.’ Nevin’s life was a success, but
it was his faith that he considered to be the biggest success of all and it is
reassuring for his family and friends that he is now in a better place where
they can see him again.
The
Wallace High Capella choir led the crowd in singing Psalm 23 – The Lord’s My Shepherd and Abide With Me.
For the
remainder of the season the Ulster team will wear NS above the badges on their shirts as a
tribute.
It was the
final send-off to a player who will remain in our memories forever – not just
for his talents on the pitch, but for his talents and beliefs off it.
Nevin
Spence – he will never be forgotten.
World in union
The
tributes to Nevin haven’t just been limited to the UK. Words of sympathy have
flooded in from all over the globe, even as far away as New Zealand.
A minute’s
silence was observed at every RaboDirect PRO12 and Aviva Premiership match over
the weekend, followed by a resounding chorus of ‘Stand Up For The Ulstermen’,
as well as similar tributes being held at club rugby and GAA matches across the
country.
It wasn’t
just the fans who were paying their respects – countless numbers of well
wishing rugby players sent their condolences to the Spence family as well.
Players such as Dan Carter, Brian O’Driscoll and Shane Williams all sent their
sympathies to the Spences and they weren’t the only ones.
It just
shows how close the rugby community is and how much one tragedy can affect so
many people. After all, rugby’s just a game.
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