Football and netball matches abandoned as River Murray community bands together after death of Tyson Freund

The ripple effect from the tragic death of a much-loved country junior footy captain continues to spread, with a major call in his honour regarding this weekend’s games.

• Club mourns Blud ‘forever 18’

River Murray football and netball matches have been called off in the wake of the death of a Jervois under-18 captain Tyson Freund.

The round eight under-18 football and A grade netball fixtures at Tailem Bend will not go ahead with teams agreeing to abandon the matches as the community continues to grieve the loss of the young star.

Mr Freund died on Tuesday after reportedly suffering breathing problems while on his family farm at Coonalpyn.

Tyson Freund, from Coonalpyn, died on the family farm after suffering an asthma attack. Picture: Supplied

Team-mates gathered at the Jervois Football Club on Thursday night, with the SANFL chaplain attending to support junior and senior players.

Tailem Bend’s team – which features a close family member of Tyson – did not train and had a team-bonding and support session.

The A-grade netball was set to be a stand-alone night match fixture, but clubs agreed to cancel the game with the tragedy hitting players in the competition hard.

It is understood other grades of Jervois’ away match against Tailem Bend will go ahead on Saturday.

Tyson Freund, far right, with Jervois teammates. Picture: Supplied

The traditional rivals will compete for the annual Lokan Cup, with the players set to wear armbands and gather for a minute’s silence.

The pre-game mark of respect is expected to take place at matches around the River Murray league.

Jervois under-18 coach Mitch Noye remembered the team captain as “kind-hearted, respectful and a born leader.”

“Forever remembered, Forever 18, Forever my captain,” he wrote.

Opposing team’s captain Johnny Phillpott – who leads Tailem Bend’s under-18s – described his counterpart as a kind, respected and warm-hearted friend.

“He was a mate, a teammate, a player I versed, and just a bloke that touched myself and everyone’s heart,” he said.

“Tyson was one of the most respected and well loved players and members of the community.

“His personality was contagious and he always had a way of putting a smile on everyone’s face.”

Tyson was captain of the Jervois Football Club under-18s, and the club released a heartfelt statement on Thursday acknowledging his impact both on and off the field.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of the passing of one of our Bluds footballers, Tyson Freund,” the statement read.

“We extend our deepest sympathy, love, and thoughts to Ronald, Belinda (BJ), and Chad, as well as their extended family and friends.

“Tyson’s loss will be felt far and wide within our Bluds community.”