The Luke nolan Cup

The Salthill Fives has been a cornerstone event in the community since its inception in 1977. After a hiatus from 2016 to 2022, the tournament is making a triumphant return in 2023 and we are honoured to announce that the winners' cup will be named The Luke Nolan Cup. Luke was an extremely talented goalkeeper with an unwavering passion for the sport. He was a proud member of the Salthill Devon Football Club and a standout player in the 2009 Salthill Fives, where he helped lead his team to victory, conceding just one goal throughout the whole tournament.

Luke Nolan truly embodied everything that makes the Salthill Fives tournament exceptional. His passion for the sport, love of a good time and dedication to teamwork and fair play showcased the values the tournament has always sought to promote. Luke unfortunately passed away in 2020 of a condition known as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) which is the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes.

HCM is a genetic heart condition characterised by the abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can make it harder for the heart to pump blood. This can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, especially during physical activity. By bringing attention to HCM and promoting awareness of this condition, we hope to honour Luke's memory and potentially save lives through early detection and treatment.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) can be particularly concerning for athletes, as physical exertion can exacerbate the symptoms and increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Recognizing the symptoms of HCM and taking preventive measures are crucial in reducing the risk of a tragic event.
mptoms may include; chest pain, palpitations, dizziness/fainting, shortness of breath.

HCM is the most common form of genetic heart disease and affects 1 in every 500 people. It is the leading cause of death for people under the age of 30 and is the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes. The condition is more common in men which approximately 60% of the cases being found in males.

Symptoms may include; chest pain, palpitations, dizziness/fainting, shortness of breath. However, like Luke, 50-70% of cases are completely asymptomatic. 1st presentation is cardiac arrest in many of these cases. Up to 80% of athletes who suffer fatal cardiac arrest had no prior symptoms or family history.Symptoms may include; chest pain, palpitations, dizziness/fainting, shortness of breath.

As we celebrate the return of the Salthill Fives and the introduction of The Luke Nolan Cup, we remember not only Luke's achievements on the field but also the impact he had on the lives of those around him. His spirit, dedication, and love for life continue to inspire future generations of footballers in Galway and beyond.

Luke's family have said that they are "incredibly proud and humbled that the Salthill Fives trophy is going to be named after our beloved Luke. Winning the Salthill Fives in 2009 was one of Luke's greatest sporting achievements and he was absolutely buzzing after it. He loved every Fives weekend he played after 2009 too. This would mean the world to Luke as it does to us."

Luke's memory has become a powerful force for change, driving greater awareness of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and the importance of heart health in the athletic community. The introduction of The Luke Nolan Cup at the Salthill Fives tournament serves as a constant reminder of the incredible impact one person can have on the lives of others and also the importance of routine cardiac tests like an ECG (electrocardiogram) and Echo (echocardiogram), which can be organised by your GP and are quick, non-invasive and inexpensive. For more information, please visit the Cry (Cardiac Risk In The Young) website below.