MEN'S VOLLEYBALL
Joseph “Murph” Irwin III
12/11/1989 – 4/21/2009
On Tuesday night, April 21, 2009, we lost
a teammate, a student, a brother, an exceptional person, a great friend...Joseph
"Murph" Irwin. "Murph" Irwin was only a freshman at
Duquesne University but was a very key component to the success (and fun)
of the Duquesne Dukes Men's Volleyball Team. Murph was an absolute blessing
for the Dukes, not only for his play on the court but just in having him
around as a friend and his upbeat, funny attitude. Murph couldn't have
come to us at a better time, as sophomore starting setter Michael Larko
went down with an injury and was forced to sit out the season. Just a
freshman, Murph came in this past year and was able to run our offense,
displaying great leadership at such a young age.
Murph was a 2008 graduate of Bethel Park High School, where he was captain
of the volleyball team and also Co-MVP of the WPIAL his senior year. He
was an exceptionally talented player and will obviously be missed for
his dedication and leadership on the court. However, all that is pushed
aside when we think of Murph’s personality. For those who knew Murph,
he was one of the funniest people you have ever been fortunate enough
to meet. He possessed the ability to calm our team down in intense game
situations with his laid back attitude and his ability to make everyone
laugh. Aside from his great sense of humor, Murph had maturity beyond
his years. Along with his ability to be laid back and funny, he knew when
it was time to get serious and give 110% on the court. Although we only
had the honor and privilege to play with Murph for one short season, the
memories and thoughts that were created in that year will surely last
a lifetime and will be remembered forever. In the Duquesne Mission Statement
there are the words, “Spiritus est qui vivificate” which means,
“It is the Spirit who gives life.” It is important that we
keep this in our minds, especially now. His memory, spirit, and legacy
will keep him alive in our minds, thoughts, and hearts forever. Murph
was known and was touched by so many different people. From the Duquesne
community, to the Bethel Park community, and the whole volleyball community
as a whole, Murph was loved by all. Murph would want us to be happy now
and to remember the great and speacial times we've shared with him. There
isn't a day that goes by that we do not miss and think of our brother
Murph. I think about what Kait Irwin (Murph's sister) said every single
day. She said, "Spread Murph's Love." These are simple yet extremely
profound words. In Murph's honor and memory, and to honor his sisters'
wishes, live life to the fullest everyday, spread happiness, make friends
for life, smile and laugh uncontrollably, and love wholeheartedly.
To the family of Murph Irwin, don't forget you are surrounded by so much love and support! You helped shape an amazing young man. We all love you so much.
And to Murph, our very special friend,
teammate, and brother, we will love and miss you forever...
*We, the Duquense Men's Volleyball Team, have many plans for our upcoming season and beyond in how we will celebrate Murph's life. We will provide further updates soon. Please be in touch!
