Darwin Buffaloes club man Willem Rockett dies after training session
The Darwin Buffaloes and wider Territory footy community are reeling after the sudden, tragic death of a beloved club man and player following a preseason training session.
The Darwin Buffaloes and wider Territory footy community have been left devastated following the shock death of beloved club man Willem Rockett after a preseason training session.
Rockett experienced a sudden medical emergency following training on Tuesday night in the lead up to the 2025-26 NTFL season.
Surrounding players helped him receive immediate first aid until the ambulance arrived to take him to Royal Darwin Hospital, where he sadly died.
Rockett moved to Darwin and joined the Buffaloes in 2023, and quickly became part of the woodwork offering himself up to support the club both on and off the field.
He became a valued part of the support crew across the grades, pulled on the boots for the Division 2 side and was elected to the committee at the club’s most recent AGM.
The Buffaloes announced his unfortunate passing on Facebook, remembering how he had dedicated himself to the club from the start and had become a crucial member of the family.
“He immersed himself in every role he could, becoming a valued member of the support crew for the Premier League men’s team,” the post read.
“As with everything he did, he threw himself wholeheartedly into training, working hard to build his skills on and off the field.
“He quickly earned the respect of his teammates and became a much-loved member of the side and club as a whole.”
They said Rockett embodied what it meant to be a true club man beyond the field helping in the canteen, cutting onions at BBQ fundraisers and running water.
“And most importantly, bringing a warm and genuine presence to everyone he met,” they said.
“Although his time with us was short, his impact was profound, and we will remember him for many years to come. The club will celebrate and honour Willem during the upcoming season.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Willem’s family, his mother Sandy, father Paul, sister Rhiannon, wife Amber, friends, and colleagues, during this incredibly difficult time.”
Clubs from around the NTFL shared their condolences recognising Rockett’s commitment and dedication to the competition.
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Originally published as Darwin Buffaloes club man Willem Rockett dies after training session
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