Amateur footy player dies after ‘freak’ on-field accident

The amateur Aussie rules player hurt in a “freak” on-field accident during a match in Melbourne at the weekend has died.

Epping Football Netball Club confirmed the news of 27-year-old Nathan Fitzgerald’s death on Monday night with a short tribute post on Facebook.

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“Rest in Peace & Love, Fitzy,” the club said, along with dove emojis

“34 - Forever Fitzy.”

The small defender and midfielder was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after what club president Luke De Vincentis described as “literally just a freak accident” during the reserves match against Lalor at Lalor Reserve.

He underwent surgery for a bleed on the brain but his condition worsened and on Sunday night the “devastated” club confirmed he had been placed in end-of-life care.

News of the incident rocked Melbourne’s community football community, sparking countless messages of support from other clubs, including rivals.

Students, parents and teachers at Mernda Central P-12 College, where Fitzgerald taught, will also be deeply affected by his death.

The school said it was “deeply saddened” by the loss of a “much-loved” colleague and wellbeing services were being made available to students and staff.

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“Nathan was an exceptional young man who brought warmth, energy, kindness and genuine care to every part of his life,” the school said, on Monday night.

“He was a deeply valued member of our school community and had a profound impact on the students, staff and families who have had the privilege of knowing him.

“Nathan represented the very best of education. He cared deeply about young people, built strong and meaningful relationships, and made those around him feel seen, supported and valued.

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“This is an incredibly difficult and distressing time for Nathan’s family, friends, teammates, colleagues, students and all who love him. Our thoughts are very much with Nathan and his family.”

Students, families and staff were invited to leave a message, memory or tribute to “Mr Fitz” in a memory box.

An online fundraiser set up by the club to support Fitzgerald’s family had raised more than $70,000 by Monday night.

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“The outpouring of emotion & support for Nathan and his family has been overwhelming; they are incredibly grateful,” the club said in a post on Facebook.

“For those in a position to, a donation to help alleviate any financial stress the family may encounter will go a very long way and will be greatly appreciated.

“From the bottom of our broken hearts, thank you.”

De Vincentis said Fitzgerald clashed with his own teammate during a tackle before his head then struck another player’s leg and then hit the cricket pitch in the centre of the ground.

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The strip of concrete was covered by artificial turf, which had been inspected by umpires ahead of the game.

Speaking to ABC radio on Monday, the president said the tragic incident should prompt an investigation into the practice of covering pitches on multi-use sports fields.

The Northern Football Netball League said there was “no suggestion that what took place was anything other than a football accident”.

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AFL legend Mick Malthouse said the tragedy was “sickening”.

De Vincentis described Fitzgerald as “tenacious as anything” and “courage personified” on the field but the complete opposite off it.

“He’s the nicest, loveliest, most gentle person,” he said, on Saturday.

“Which is one of the reasons why it’s really hard as well, because he’s a really loved club character, club person, but you know, on field just as tough as they come.”

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City of Whittlesea Mayor Lawrie Cox said the council is “deeply saddened” by the incident during Saturday’s game.

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