Cam McCarthy’s family break silence in heartbreaking move

The family of Cam McCarthy have broken their silence in the wake of the former AFL player’s death that rocked the sport.

Cam McCarthy’s family have broken their silence following the shock death of the former AFL player last week.

The former Fremantle and GWS player died last Thursday at the age of 29 after being found unresponsive by paramedics at a house in Lake Coogee in Perth’s south.

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The shock news hit the AFL community hard with heartbreaking scenes unfolding as the Dockers lined up on Friday night.

Former teammates Nat Fyfe and Alex Pearce were seen in tears as tribute to the 70-game player was displayed on the big screen.

McCarthy’s family have now broken their silence with a heartfelt obituary in The West Australian on Thursday.

“CAMERON ALEX: Our beautiful son and brother, Cameron,” they wrote.

“It is with heavy hearts that we’ve had to say goodbye for now.

“A huge hole now exists in our lives. It will never be the same without you.

“Through the ups and downs we all rode with you, and you knew that we loved you so much.

“You lit up every room with that gorgeous smile, and we will cherish our memories with you forever.

“Until we meet again. Rest peacefully. Love you always, Dad, Mum, Jessica, Hannah, Drew, Ryan, Poppy.”

Cam and his puppy. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

McCarthy during his Docker days. (Photo by Will Russell/AFL Media/Getty Images)

The heartfelt tribute comes after West Coast defender Tom Barrass shared a heartbreaking post to his former close mate.

“Last week, this earth lost a beautiful man named Cameron McCarthy,” Barrass wrote.

“A man who wasn’t concerned with money or power, instead creativity and experience. A man who approached all things with energy and excitement, as if viewing them for the first time.

“A man whose presence will be sorely missed, but whose outlook and opinion can be heard any time we wish to listen.

“Enjoy the journey and lean in. Trust your intuition and have conviction, as that’s all you’ve really got in the end.

“Men like these are hard to come by; so full of love, kindness and laughter. But that’s why they’re so special, and the lessons they teach last a lifetime.

“I’m gonna miss you Universal Brother. Say Gday to the big fella for me and put in a good word please. Rest in Peace.”

Barrass shared a series of pictures of the pair together. Photo: Instagram

McCarthy passed away at 29. Pic: Instagram

AFL players flooded into the comments with Eagles teammates including Josh Rotham, Alex Witherdan, Elliot Yeo and Coby Burgiel sending their love, alongside Collingwood’s Darcy Cameron, Port Adelaide’s Willie Rioli and former Eagles Tom Hickey and Will Schofield.

After West Coast’s match against Collingwood on the weekend, Eagles captain Liam Duggan spoke about how close the pair were.

“Cam was a good friend of TB and it’s just really sad news,” Duggan said.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, and we wrap our arms around TB.

“It thought it was quite strong for TB to be on the trip and lead like he did for us.”

Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir also spoke up on Wednesday, calling for the AFL to “do more” for former players in need.

“We can always do more,” Longmuir said.

“The Cam situation should bring it to the forefront, and more discussions should be had to see if we can improve.

“From personal experiences, I know the AFLPA (AFL Players Association) offer a lot of resources and a lot of services for past players.

“The discussion should be around how we can get those past players using those services, and making sure their wellbeing and health post-footy remains really vibrant.”

Originally published as Cam McCarthy’s family break silence in heartbreaking move