Death of Coby Fechner shatters rugby league communities

The sudden death of a talented rugby league player has shattered the hearts of sporting fans with friends describing him as a ‘bloody good mate’ and ‘tremendous young man’.

Tributes are flowing for young rugby league talent Coby Fechner (pictured playing for St Marys College in 2019) following his sudden death.

The South West Queensland rugby league community has been shattered by the sudden death of a beloved young player and coach who has been remembered as a dedicated teammate and good friend.

Coby Fechner, who died last week, is being remembered as great mate who always had a smile on his face and a league man who gave everything he had to his clubs.

“He was a tremendous young man,” Southern Suburbs Tigers president Brian Hearn said.

“His father played for us in the ‘80s and Coby joined us for a little while towards the end of his junior years and played for us as a senior as well.

“He was staunch clubman who showed up for every single event, put his hand up for everything and helped out however he could.

“He loved getting around the boys at training and always had a smile on his face.”

Tributes flow for Coby Fechner after his sudden death.

Tributes flow for Coby Fechner after his sudden death. June 17, 2025.

A St Mary’s College student during his time in Toowoomba, Fechner joined Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls RLFC when he moved to western Queensland.

Fechner immediately endeared himself to Red Bull faithful, taking on a junior coaching role and playing with the club for a number of seasons.

The club shared a tribute to Fechner on their Facebook page after his death.

“With broken hearts, we share the passing of one of our own, Coby Fechner,” the statement read.

“Coby was a player for many years, a coach and a bloody good mate. Our thoughts are with Wrnita, Eden, Phoebe, his extended family and friends during this time.

“No doubt you and Dad are sinking beers and fishing, together again. Rest easy Coby. You will be missed by so many. We love you mate!”

Fechner moved back to Toowoomba this year and immediately rejoined Souths for the 2025 Toowoomba Rugby League season.

“We were delighted to have him back,” Hearn said.

“Unfortunately he had a bit of bad luck with injuries so he only played a few games before deciding to give the season away.

“He was a great young man and his memory will absolutely never be forgotten here.”

Originally published as Death of Coby Fechner shatters rugby league communities