The Brisbane Broncos were struck by heartbreak on Saturday night following the sudden death of a devoted club member just moments before their match against the Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium.
The tragic incident occurred just before kick-off when the long-standing fan suffered a fatal heart attack inside the stadium. Despite the swift response from paramedics on-site, all efforts to revive the man were unsuccessful.
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Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy expressed deep sorrow over the loss, saying:
“It was horribly sad. Our thoughts are with the family right now, and of course we will do whatever we can to support them at this difficult time.”
He also commended the first responders for their efforts under distressing circumstances.
In a touching gesture, the club fulfilled a request from the bereaved family by donating a Broncos jersey, which will be draped over the man’s coffin at his funeral.
Queensland Emergency Services confirmed they attended to a “serious medical event” around 7:30pm at the Castlemaine Street venue.
The somber news contrasted with what was otherwise a celebratory evening for the Broncos, who snapped a form slump with a dominant 44-14 victory over the Titans. The match also marked a milestone for halfback Adam Reynolds, who was playing his 300th NRL game.
Players wore special all-black jerseys as part of the club’s Mental Health Round. The unique kit, designed in collaboration with charity partner Black Dog Institute, helped raise funds and awareness for mental health, with all proceeds from the game’s 50-50 charity raffle also going toward the organization.
While the team’s performance was a source of joy for fans, the emotional weight of the evening was felt throughout the stadium, as the club and its supporters came to grips with the heartbreaking loss of one of their own.
