HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a former rugby player who raised over a £1.5million to help others going through a similar diagnosis as him.
Matt Gallagher, from Solihull, died on March 8 – two and a half years after being diagnosed with Motor Neurones Disease (MND).
The former Coventry Rugby Club player and his family set up the Matt Gallagher Foundation after he was diagnosed in October 2023, to raise money to support over 100 families living with MND .
His family said they were “heartbroken” by the news that their “devoted husband, loving father and unbelievable role model” had died.
The Matt Gallagher Foundation: “Matt wasn’t just the driving force behind the Matt Gallagher Foundation, he was an unbelievable role model, a devoted husband, and a loving father.
“His courage and compassion inspired everyone who knew him, showing us what it truly means to live with kindness at the very heart of who you are.
Through the Foundation, Matt brought people together, raised awareness for MND, and supported over 100 families, all while facing his own battles with remarkable bravery. With over £1.6 million raised, his legacy of hope and generosity is immeasurable.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported the Foundation and shown so much love. This is more than a legacy, it is the mark of a true hero.
“We love you Dad and we will carry you in our hearts forever, sleep tight.”
Since the launch of the Foundation the Solihull community came together in his name to raise funds.
This included charity cricket match, an annual ball, a 3km run, a burpee world record attempt and his former school – Solihull School – dedicated its annual Charity Week to the fund.
Paying tribute Solihull School said: “Matt Gallagher was an integral part of the Solihull School community, as a pupil, a parent, a friend to many of us and a brilliant rugby coach.
“Many of the students he coached will remember his encouragement, his determination and his belief in them. We will continue to support the Foundation he set up after his MND diagnosis.”
Matt began playing at Solihull Rugby Club at the age of five, going on to play for the Birmingham Bees’ first team by the age of 18.
He continued his career at Sheffield Hallam, where he won the British Polytechnic Cup twice, and Nottingham Rugby Club, playing in the Championship at the age of 20.
He then signed for Coventry RFC in 1996, playing more than 100 games for the team before leaving in 2001 – before concluding his rugby career at Birmingham and Solihull.
He retired in 2003.
Coventry Rugby Club said: “Matt was a valued member of the Coventry Rugby family whose connection with the club spanned far beyond his time on the field.
“While many supporters will remember him as a talented full-back who made 100 appearances for the club after joining in 1996, those who knew him best will remember him for his character, kindness and the way he brought people together.
“Everyone at Coventry Rugby sends their heartfelt condolences to Matt’s family, friends and all those connected with the Matt Gallagher Foundation at this incredibly difficult time. He will be greatly missed across the rugby community.”
Birmingham and Solihull RFC said: “Matt was a valued member of the B&S family and rugby more widely and will be remembered fondly by teammates, friends, and all who knew him around the club. His courage and determination in the face of Motor Neurone Disease inspired many.
“Through The Matt Gallagher Foundation, he helped raise awareness and support for those affected by MND across the Midlands, and we are proud that the club has been able to play a small part in supporting its work.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Matt’s family, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”
