A 16-year-old footballer, Ben Dumigan, has been forced to retire from competitive football due to a rare medical condition. Dumigan, a defender for Cork City, had been undergoing medical tests in January in preparation for a move to Bundesliga club Hoffenheim when he was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).
HCM is a condition that causes abnormal thickening of a part of the heart muscle. While Dumigan can live a long and healthy life and safely engage in moderate exercise, the intense physical demands of competitive football put him at an increased risk of developing potentially fatal heart arrhythmias.
Cork City released a statement saying: “It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the retirement of 16-year-old defender Ben Dumigan. At the end of January, during medical tests ahead of his move to Hoffenheim, Ben received a diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).”
Dumigan joined Cork City from Midleton FC as an Under-14 player and was set to join the first team for the 2025 season. He also represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-17 level.
Dumigan expressed his shock at the diagnosis but acknowledged the support he received. He said, “Announcing my retirement from football at such a young age is something I never imagined. It has been a shock, but the diagnosis may have saved my life, and I am grateful for that. I’m overwhelmed by the support from everyone, and I want to thank Hoffenheim, CAA Base, Midleton FC, my school, my family, and especially Cork City, and Liam Kearney for their incredible support during this difficult time.”
Liam Kearney, Cork City’s Head of Academy, praised Dumigan’s talent and character. “Ben’s potential as a footballer was clear to everyone, as seen in his international call-ups and imminent move to Hoffenheim. We support him entirely as he moves on from his playing career, and we’ll be here to help him adjust. I’ve been deeply impressed by his positivity and resilience, qualities that will serve him well in the future.”