Bendigo FNL Statement – Castlemaine FNC Round 6 Under 18 football match

The Bendigo Football Netball League together with the Castlemaine Football Netball Club wish to briefly provide some clarity regarding the tragic passing of one of the CFNC under 18 players yesterday, as there are some inconsistencies within public reports of the incident:

• The Castlemaine FNC player who tragically passed away after the Under 18 football match which he participated in did not collapse on the ground, nor was the match in which he participated ‘called off’ or abandoned, with the Under 18 match played to the full time allocated.
• The subsequent Reserves Grade football match scheduled for 12.30pm was also played to the full time allocated.
• The Senior Grade football match commenced as scheduled at 2.20pm, but this match was abandoned shortly after as was the A-Grade netball match scheduled for 3.20pm out of respect after the clubs learned of the tragic circumstances, and to ensure all impacted players, family, friends, and match officials from both clubs received immediate necessary support.

A Victoria Police spokesman said, 'Emergency services were called to reports of an unresponsive boy at a football field on Mollison Street, Kyneton, about 12.20pm.'’

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

'Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the death of a teenager in Kyneton on Saturday, May 27,' added police.'

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

Whilst not in a position to comment further currently, the club and league's priority remains providing and facilitating support for the family, friends, teammates, and coaches of the player.

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.

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