The Australian football community mourns the loss of beloved ruckman Alex Aurrichio

WARATAH Football Club and the greater Australian football community is mourning the loss of beloved American ruckman Alex “Rooch” Aurrichio who was killed in a road accident on Monday night.

The late Alex Aurrichio - pictured after signing for Southport Sharks - was much loved by his Waratah, Sharks, Northern Blues and South Adelaide teammates. Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS

WARATAH Football Club and the greater Australian football community is mourning the loss of beloved American ruckman Alex “Rooch” Aurrichio who was killed in a road accident on Monday night.

The 30-year-old from New York had recently made a permanent move to Darwin, after moving to the country in November 2014 to pursue his dream of playing in the AFL.

Aurrichio was dedicated to perfecting his game and despite his short career in the sport he gathered plenty of high-level experience.

As well as playing for Waratah, the larger-than-life character had also played for VFL side Northern Blues, SANFL club South Adelaide and NEAFL outfit Southport.

Waratah teammate Abe Ankers referred to his friend as an “all-round top bloke” who couldn’t help but lighten the room with his presence.

“He was just a great character. An all-round top bloke who was great to be around,” Ankers told the NT News. “His charisma and energy would light up the room and he could make everyone and anyone smile or laugh.

“He was massively uplifting and motivating as a person and could make you feel as tall as he was when he was around. There was never a dull moment with him and he will be sorely missed.

“As for playing there are guys who could play their whole lives who aren’t as good as he was in the short time he played, and the scary thing was that he was still improving with every game.

“He was a massive presence on the field, and for him to pick the game up as quickly as he did is just a massive testament to who he was as a person and his dedication to his sport.

“Just an easygoing guy who loved life.

“If he wanted something there was no reason he couldn’t achieve it.”

Messages of condolences have flowed from across the country for the big man, with Waratah club president Rohan Langworthy saying he had quickly become a favourite at the club.

“He clearly touched all who met him,” Langworthy said.

“We are all in disbelief to have lost such a loveable larrikin.”