Tributes have flowed for Margaret Varcoe, the sister of Collingwood midfielder Travis Varcoe, after she passed away at the Royal Adelaide Hospital overnight.
The 27-year-old was playing in an Adelaide Football League women’s grand final on Sunday, when it was reported that she collided with one of her teammates.
Following the incident, Varcoe proceeded to walk off the ground before collapsing in the change rooms. She was quickly rushed to hospital, where friends and family surrounded her.
Her brother, Travis, flew to Adelaide hospital to be by her side.
Margaret Varcoe was playing for the Angle Vale Football Club, who took to social media on Thursday evening to share their condolences and pay tribute to one of the most respected players in the league.
A host of AFL players, coaches and respected figures have taken to social to pay their condolences since the news of Varcoe’s death.
Life is brutal sometimes. You meet some amazing people in this industry & share/feel their grief when tragedy strikes. Love & prayers tonight to the Varcoe’s & Sloane’s. My family are all in tears tonight as I imagine many more are x
— Brenton Sanderson (@SandoBrent) August 30, 2018
A year to the day I lost my brother, I hear the sad story of Trav Varcoe’s sister!! The situation feels to similar. Sending love and prayers to Trav and Family. The industry will wrap their arms around his family now ❤️
— Sam Jacobs (@samjacobs24) August 30, 2018
Our deepest sympathies go out to the Varcoe family, may you all find strength and love during this difficult time.
— The Long Walk (@TheLongWalkOz) August 30, 2018
Travis Varcoe has played 16 games for Collingwood this season, playing his 200th game just a week ago against Fremantle.
A week out from their Qualifying Final against the Eagles, the club reached out to family and friends affected by Maggie’s death.
The club extends its deepest sympathies to the family of Travis Varcoe following the tragic passing of his sister, Margaret – https://t.co/7IPdlZs1LJ The thoughts + love of all at the club are with Travis in this most difficult time pic.twitter.com/Uoi1VR9tSg
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) August 30, 2018
Collingwood president Eddie McGuire payed tribute to the Varcoe family on the AFL Footy Show on Thursday evening.
“We extend our deepest sympathy and we remember Margaret Varcoe tonight,” McGuire said.
Photo: “Travis Varcoe, Australia, in action against Brendan Donaghy, Ireland” by TG4 available here and used under a Creative Commons attribute.