We wish to extend our deepest appreciation for the incredible love and support we've received during this trying period. Our father's profound dedication and passion for County Sligo Swim Club left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His tireless efforts in coaching and guiding young swimmers reflected his unwavering commitment to their development and success.

In remembrance of our father's deep connection to the club, we have initiated a donation page to honour his legacy at Sligo Swimming Club. A Memorial Cup will be established in his name, to be presented annually in memory of Dad's enduring spirit and dedication within the club. This cup will serve as a lasting tribute to his unwavering passion and the positive impact he had on the lives of many.

We haven’t set a target, but we would like to raise as much as we can to ensure the continuation of his legacy. Your kindness and support hold immense significance to us. Let us unite to ensure that our father's spirit remains alive within the club he cherished dearly. Join us as we pay tribute to his memory and commemorate his enduring influence on County Sligo Swim Club.

We are deeply grateful for your involvement in this meaningful journey.

With heartfelt appreciation,

The Evans Family

Tribute to Richard Evans from County Sligo Swimming Club.

County Sligo Swim Club was deeply saddened to hear of the unexpected death of former club coach Ritchie Evans. Ritchie was a coach with us from 2014 to 2021. The club wishes to share their condolences with his partner Jayne and children Callum, Sian and Zoe and his wider family.

This morning we held a minutes silence at our early group 4 and masters training session as a mark of respect to Ritchie and allowed the kids some time to reminisce on the time they spent under Ritchies guidance. We're conscious this is difficult for the children who he coached for many years and will be putting appropriate measures in place to support them.

Club Chairperson Kyle who knew Ritchie very well wanted to share some memories.

"There are a lot of G4 and G3 swimmers that would have started in the club with Richie as their first coach – Liadan, Daniel, Noah, Carys, Grace, Helena etc.

He was a wild card with a great sense of humour, and with his thick Welsh accent and how quickly he spoke, half the time we had no idea what he was saying…but the kids always seemed to manage to understand him ! He worked the kids hard but was always so kind and fun I don’t think they noticed, and he had a rapport with swimmers of all ages that is hard to compare.

He will be best remembered as the Lead Coach for the CSSC Northern League Team – this was a development league to encourage younger swimmers (8-12 yrs), who wouldn’t normally participate in galas, to participate and improve their competitive swimming skills. The emphasis is on fun and team work, and Richie lead the charge for Sligo in this. He was always pacing up and down the deck roaring encouragement at the kids and there was always a high 5 for each swimmer as they got out of the water and a team huddle at the start and end of each gala. He was so proud of how well they did winning several years in a row.

He was such a good sport and could always be relied upon to be the Club ‘Santa’ at the Christmas gala each year, and to give out prizes and take hundreds of photos with each of the swimmers at the club awards nights and at the Swim Ireland Award Night when CSSC obtained their Clubmark – he was a great believer in community spirit and that the kids came first."

Rest in peace Ritchie 😔