Tributes have flooded in after a talented Welsh footballer died at the age of just 25 years old, as the footballing community mourns the loss
Afan Lido player Ioan Evans has passed away aged 25(Image: Facebook/Afan Lido FC)
Welsh football is in mourning following the tragic death of Afan Lido FC player Ioan Evans at the age of 25. The JD Cymru South club confirmed the heartbreaking news, saying they were “devastated” by his passing and struggling to find the words to express their grief.
He played for the club as recently as Friday night, in Afan Lido’s game with Pontypridd United. A club statement read: “With the heaviest of hearts everyone at Afan Lido FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ioan Evans.
“We don’t really have the words to adequately express our grief at this time. Ioan loved being a Lido player, a committed club man, and he was immensely popular with everybody. He had time for everyone and a few words with Ioan were guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
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“He was the smallest man in the room who had the biggest impact on those around him. We will be providing support to his teammates and a book of condolence will be opened in the club for anyone wishing to share memories and pay their respects.
“Our thoughts are with Ioan’s family and friends at this extremely sad time. Rest in peace, Ioan. You will always be remembered.”
Evans, who was raised in the Rhondda, completed his studies at Cardiff Met University and featured once in the JD Cymru Premier for the Archers against Llanelli Town in April 2019, reports Wales Online.
He was also included in the matchday squad later that season when Cardiff Met memorably beat Bala Town on spot-kicks in the play-off final to secure European qualification for the first time in the club’s history.
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He signed for Afan Lido in October 2020 and made his debut in the Nathaniel MG Cup against Risca United two months afterwards. Evans went on to become one of the club’s most enduring players, turning out 127 times and scoring 16 goals.
A dependable starter and amongst the side’s most reliable performers, he skippered the team on numerous occasions and claimed both the managers’ player of the year and the players’ player of the year awards last season.
The Football Association of Wales and JD Cymru Leagues said: “Everyone at the JD Cymru Leagues and Football Association of Wales is devastated to learn of the passing of Afan Lido player Ioan Evans. Our sincerest condolences go to Ioan’s family, friends and everyone at Afan Lido FC. He will always be remembered. Cwsg mewn hedd, Ioan.”
As word of Evans’ death circulated, tributes poured in from clubs throughout the Welsh football pyramid. Barry Town United wrote: “Everyone from Barry Town United sends their deepest condolences. All our thoughts with the club, his family and friends. A fantastic young man and a credit to your club!”
Haverfordwest County added: “Such tragic news. The thoughts of everyone at Haverfordwest County AFC are with Ioan’s friends, family and all at Afan Lido FC at this terribly sad time. Rest in peace, Ioan.”
Goytre United described him as “an excellent footballer, a tremendous person and a credit to your club,” adding: “He will be truly missed by the football community.”
Prestatyn Town, Ynyshir Albions, Treowen Stars, Ammanford AFC and Cefn Cribwr FC were amongst the numerous other clubs to send heartfelt messages of support and condolences. The Welsh Blood Service League Cup match between Newport City and Afan Lido, due to take place on Friday, February 7, has been postponed as a mark of respect.
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