Nevin Spence (26 April 1990 – 15 September 2012) was a bright young talent for Ulster & Irish rugby. Spence was a multitalented player and also played football for Northern Ireland at underage levels. His footballing abilities were obvious on the rugby field and this started the pathway for a skilled yet strong centre.
Spence made a name for himself in the 2009/2010 season with his local AIL club Ballynahinch.The club won the Ulster Senior League, Cup, AIL Division 2 and All-Ireland Cup all in a single season. Spence went on to make his Ulster debit in 2010 against the Ospreys as he progressed his way through their academy. Spence was prominent for Ireland at underage and the Irish wolfhounds yet never got to make a full Irish cap. Spence did play in an Irish XV against the Barbarians in may of 2012.
Tragically on the 15th of September 2012, Nevin along with his brother Graham and father Noel died in an accident on their home farm in Hillsborough, Co.Down. It is reported that they were overcome by fumes released from a slurry pit while trying to save their dog.
Nevin was a massive loss to the rugby community and will always be remembered fondly as the bright talent that never was. Ulster Rugby have since set up a new education centre at Ravenhill as part of it's renovations and named it ''The Nevin Spence centre'' in remembrance of the former Irish U20 star.
Career
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Ballynahinch RFC Outside Centre |
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Ulster Rugby Outside Centre |
2010 - 2012 |
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Ireland Outside Centre |
2011 - 2012 |
