Gold Coast football in mourning following death of Pacific Pines president Cheryl Southwood

THE Gold Coast football community is rallying around friends and family of Pacific Pines president Cheryl Southwood, who passed away unexpectedly this week at the age of 42.

THE Gold Coast football community is rallying around friends and family of Pacific Pines president Cheryl Southwood, who died unexpectedly this week at the age of 42.

Club president for more than five years, Englishwoman Southwood underwent surgery to remove a brain tumour on Monday but passed away following complications.

The sister of Coomera Premier League coach Steve Macdonald, she leaves behind husband Mick and sons Josh and Ben.

A gofundme page has been created and has already raised more than $4,000.

While the Pacific Pines grounds remain closed until further notice, the club’s Facebook page has been inundated with messages of support for the family.

Cheryl Southwood (right) with son Josh at Pacific Pines in 2016. Picture: Richard Gosling

Condolences came from a number of clubs, including Gold Coast United, Tweed United and Robina City.

Macdonald said he was “heartbroken”.

“I drove past the football club (on Tuesday) and it broke my heart that you won’t be there anymore,” he posted on Facebook.

“I promise I will take care of all your boys for you. It still hasn’t sunk in yet, I would do anything to bring you back.”

Southwood’s brother and Coomera Premier League coach Steve MacDonald.

A post on the Football Gold Coast Facebook page described Southwood as the heart and soul of Pacific Pines.

“Cheryl … was the driving force and catalyst with the improvement and development of this proud club,” the post read.

“She will be sorely missed by the whole Football Gold Coast family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family, loved ones and everyone at the club.

“Funeral details will be posted when they come to hand.”

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