Teenager dies after injuries from a football match

A country footballer has died in central Victoria after collapsing during a match on Saturday afternoon.

A teenager has died in hospital after an incident during a country footy game on Saturday afternoon.

The 17-year-old Castlemaine player lost their life during the under-18s game against Kyneton in the Bendigo league.

The Herald Sun understands the boy was involved in an on-field collision before collapsing.

“Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the death of a teenager in Kyneton on Saturday, May 27,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

“Emergency services were called to reports of an unresponsive boy at a football field on Mollison Street, about 12.20pm.

“A 17-year-old boy from Castlemaine was taken to hospital where he later died.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the death are yet to be determined but the matter is not being treated as suspicious.”

The Bendigo league on Saturday night released a statement saying it was devastated by the loss of one of their competitions players.

“The club and league’s first priority is providing and facilitating support for the family, friends, teammates, and coaches of the player,” the statement said.

“The club and league will continue to work together closely and kindly request that the privacy of family, friends and teammates be respected during this incredible difficult time.”

The senior match later in the day between Castlemaine and Kyneton in seniors was abandoned as a result of the incident.

“We will be gathering as a community from 4.30pm at social rooms at Camp Reserve, Castlemaine to provide a safe space to be together at this difficult time,” Castlemaine Football Netball Club said in a post on its social media channels.

The youngster has been remembered as a “nice kid” by those posting tributes on the club’s social media channels.

“Hard to believe something like this can happen in junior football. My heart goes out to all. My son plays for u18 as well and I can’t even begin to imagine how hard this would be,” another person wrote.

Kyneton posted a statement regarding the incident on Saturday night.

“The Kyneton Football (and) Netball Club are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of an under 18 player from the Castlemaine Football (and) Netball Club. Our thoughts and prayers are with the players, family, friends, and teammates and we ask that you please respect their privacy at this time,” the social media post said.