Country footy: Yallourn Yallourn North mourns Jamie Young

A “gentle” and “caring” Gippsland footballer is being remembered for his “protective” nature on and off the field after his death.

Tributes have flowed for footballer Jamie Young since his death. Photo: GoFundMe.

Gippsland footy is in mourning after the passing of a popular father and teammate.

Tributes have flowed for Jamie Young, a reserves player at Yallourn Yallourn North, after his death last weekend.

Mr Young re-joined the North Gippsland league club for the 2022 season after previously playing for Traralgon Tyers United in the same competition.

He played an important role in helping his side reach the grand final this year.

In a social media post informing its supporters of Mr Young’s death, Yallourn Yallourn North described him as “the life of the part off the field and the toughest guy on the field”.

Reserves coach Owen Budge also paid tribute in the post.

“We at YYN have been able to see you grow from a kid into a man, you haven’t played every season but your recent return to the club was the closing of the circle and you became part of the furniture very quickly,” he said.

“You said it felt like returning home after the first game back and you loved all the blokes. How in one season you can prove to so many how grown up you had become.

“You were a fierce competitor on the field but a gentle (and) caring one off, none more evident (sic) than how you interacted with your own kids when they came to the footy and all the other players kids that ran up to talk to you.

“You helped out as a volunteer when required and you were very protective and proud like a big brother to so many of the Thirds kids.

“You embraced the club and we feel the club was able to get the best out of you. You were a vibes leader at any social occasion and made everyone enjoy themselves.

“This is why your recent departure has hit so hard to so many people.

“You are a one of a kind that has left a massive impact in such a short time. We miss you and we as a club will learn from you.

“They say the good die Young.”

A GoFundMe has been created to help support Mr Young’s family with his funeral and ongoing costs.

“Jamie was always there for so many people when they needed him so please return the favour and donate,” the page said.

“Anyone who knew Jamie would agree that his cheeky smile would light up any room that he walked into.

“ Jamie was a friend to so many and was loved by them all. Jamie has made an impact on so many from his family, his workmates, mates from footy clubs, drinking mates and everyone else that he met.

“Jamie will always be remembered for just being him.”

You can donate here.

If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Help is also available via Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.