💔 NO ONE REALIZED THE INCIDENT ON THE FIELD WOULD BE HIS LAST… NOW THE TRA-GIC DE-ATH OF LOCAL FOOTBALLER NATHAN FITZGERALD IS LEAVING AN ENTIRE COMMUNITY SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS
The 27-year-old was placed in end-of-life care on Sunday after being rushed to hospital the previous day.
Nathan Fitzgerald has tragically died after suffering horrific brain injuries during a game of local football.
The much-loved 27-year-old high school teacher was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after a head clash on Saturday and underwent brain surgery that night, before entering end-of-life care on Sunday.
Epping Football Club confirmed Fitzgerald had died with a short statement on Monday night.
“Rest in Peace & Love, Fitzy,” they wrote, along with “34 – Forever Fitzy”.
Mernda Central College, the school where Fitzgerald worked at, paid tribute to the much-loved colleague.
“Nathan was an exceptional young man who brought warmth, energy, kindness and genuine care to every part of his life,” they wrote.
“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.
“Nathan was deeply loved, valued and respected by all of us at Mernda Central P-12 College, and our entire community is holding him and his family in our thoughts.”
The school also confirmed they are providing students and staff with support, as well as providing members of the community to leave a message in a memory box.
Fitzgerald’s head clash with a teammate saw him recoil into the synthetic cricket pitch at Lalor Reserve.
Epping’s Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) division three reserves match against Lalor was abandoned as trainers from both clubs and paramedics performed CPR and defibrillation for almost an hour before he was transported to The Royal Melbourne Hospital. The senior game was also abandoned.
The club’s players, coaches and supporters gathered at Epping Recreational Reserve on Sunday to support each other through the unfolding tragedy.
In a statement on Monday, the NFNL said it is doing its best to wrap its arms around the Epping community.
“The NFNL community is devastated by the tragic news of Epping player Nathan Fitzgerald being provided end-of-life care,” the league said.
“The thoughts and deepest condolences of the NFL board and staff are with his family, triends, teammates and the Epping Football Club as they endure this very difficult time. We are doing all we can to ensure they don’t carry this burden alone with the support of the AFL and AFL Victoria.
“Our thoughts are also with the Lator Football Club, its players, officials and supporters who were so close to this terrible accident and the Mernda Central College community, where Nathan is a valued and respected teacher.
“Nathan’s situation has been felt by the entire football community and beyond. A solemn reminder of just how precious life is. The NFL wishes to again acknowledge the Epping and Lalor medical staff and the emergency services personnel who treated and cared for Nathan. They did all they could in very trying circumstances.
“NFL clubs and umpires will be encouraged to join together before the start of each match this coming weekend for a minute of reflection for Nathan and in support of his family.
“The league’s focus is firmly on supporting Nathan’s family and our clubs and we won’t be drawn into discussions regarding ground conditions for local football.”
Messages of love and support for Epping and the Fitzgerald family have flooded social media since news of the devastating incident emerged.
Aadesh Narayan said: “Absolutely devastated. Nathan Fitzgerald was one of the most down to earth and genuine blokes I’ve ever met.
“I worked with him at Woolworths Plenty Valley for many years. He radiated good energy that was contagious. Always had a smile on his face.
“When I ran into him a couple of months ago, we had a good chat and he was still radiating that pure and wholesome energy. A hard working man with so much ahead of him.
“I am truly heartbroken hearing this news. My sincere condolences to his partner, family, loved ones and students that he taught. 34 – Forever Fitzy.”
Fitzgerald had played 10 games for Epping this year, including one in the seniors.
A GoFundMe page has been created to support Fitzgerald’s family through this period. It had raised almost $20,000 just two hours after it was created.
“The Epping Football Netball Club is rallying behind one of our own, Nathan Fitzgerald, following a devastating on-field football accident,” the page reads.
“Nathan sustained a serious brain injury while playing the game he loves, and he is currently receiving end of life care. As his family remains by his side during this incredibly difficult time, we want to do everything we can to help ease the financial pressures they are facing.
“If you are in a position to help, no matter how big or small, your donation will make a genuine difference. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser would mean the world.
“The entire Epping Football Netball Club community stands united with Nathan and his family.
“Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. Every donation helps. Every share matters.”
SOURCE: https://7news.com.au/sport/community-sport/local-footballer-nathan-fitzgerald-tragically-dies-after-freak-accident-playing-for-epping-c-22535595
