The Bendigo Football Netball League community has been left in shock following the death of a Castlemaine under-18 football player in a game on Saturday.
Castlemaine was playing Kyneton at the Kyneton Showgrounds in the under-18s match when emergency services were called to the ground.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said that 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 transported to Kyneton Hospital in a critical condition 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 police will prepare a report for the coroner.
The rest of the day’s play at Kyneton was cancelled, as were the Tigers rural round celebrations which were occurring on Saturday.
The league on its Facebook page said it and the Castlemaine Football Netball Club were devastated following the death.
“The club and league’s first priority is providing and facilitating support for the family, friends, teammates, and coaches of the player,” the post 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 incredibly difficult time.”
Castlemaine opened its club rooms on Saturday to provide a safe space for everyone to be together during the difficult time and planned to do the same on Sunday.
Kyneton made a post on its social media pages.
“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,” it said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the players, family, friends, and teammates and we ask that you please respect their privacy at this time.”
Gisborne also made a post saying the club sent its deepest condolences to all involved with the Castlemaine Football Netball Club at this very sad time.
“The thoughts of the Gisborne Football Netball Club committee, players and community are with you all.”
