Herald Sun | A YOUNG father has died during a country football match after collapsing on to the field following a tackle.
The Herald Sun understands Otway Districts Football Club player Aaron Mahoney ran into the outstretched arm of an opponent during his club's clash with Lorne at the Gellibrand Recreation Reserve on Saturday afternoon.
Witnesses thought the 24-year-old was winded, but he collapsed to the ground and began convulsing.
He had earlier left the ground with a blood nose in the second quarter,
Trainers from both Lorne and Otway Districts rushed to his aid and started CPR.
It is believed Mr Mahoney was revived twice in a 40-minute period before paramedics arrived about 2.55pm.
The paramedics continued CPR, but Mr Mahoney died at scene.
The Colac and District Football League match was abandoned after tragedy.
Mr Mahoney leaves behind two young children.
The talented footballer — the club's best and fairest winner last year — played at Otway Districts with his brothers, Dean and Leigh, both of whom were listed to play in Saturday's match.
Players from both teams were said to be "absolutely devastated" by the tragedy.
A witness said spectators at the country oval — Otway Districts' home ground — were "hysterical" in the wake of the incident.
An AFL Barwon spokesman described the tackle as "fair and above the board".
"But his heart stopped," the spokesman said.
"It's an unfortunate and sad accident that has occurred.
"AFL Victoria will put in place some counselling through their pastoral care arm and try and help all the affected parties."
Lorne Football Club president Ken Hosking said he understood the man died as a result of an "innocuous tackle".
AFL Victoria has offered its "deepest sympathies" to the player's family, his club and the local football community.
"We will be endeavouring to support them in any way possible," it said in a statement.
AFL Victoria confirmed the Otways District player died after collapsing on the field: "The player was unable to be revived despite the best efforts of club trainers and support staff."
Police officers from Colac are investigating the incident.
A Victoria Police spokeswoman confirmed police were called to the oval on Football Rd — 25km south of Colac — at 3.30pm.
They will prepare a report for the coroner
The Otway Districts Football Club directed all comment to AFL Barwon on Saturday afternoon.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.