Community rallies behind Kwinana footballer after training collapse
The Kwinana Knights Football Club is rallying behind a young player who suddenly collapsed after he became ill at training on Monday night.
Joshua Kickett, 20, collapsed on the field at Medina Oval before being rushed to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital by St John Ambulance at about 5.50pm on Monday night.
The Sound Telegraph understands Mr Kickett was taken to hospital to undergo emergency surgery and was later placed in an induced coma.
There has been an outpouring of support on social media with friends, family and club members praying for his recovery, and sharing pictures and messages of love and encouragement.
A GoFundMe campaign set up by the club to help pay for Mr Kickett’s medical costs has raised more than $13,214 in two days.
“Tragedy has struck and without reason, Joshua has found himself fighting for his life,” the page says.
“Even at such a young age of only 20, Joshua has touched the lives of so many people, especially his family and his extended family - the Kwinana Knights Football Club.
“His family and friends are praying for his recovery, but funds are desperately needed to help his family cover medical and living expenses at this stressful time.”
More than 250 people took to the page leaving generous donations and wishing the young player a “speedy” recovery.
“You couldn’t meet a more genuine, kind hearted bloke. Incredibly unfair but we all know you’re a fighter and as tough as they come. Hang in their Brother, we need you, “Jacob Moynihan wrote.
“You are an inspiration and good friend, we wish you all the very best and pray you recover to keep the smile alive on our faces as you so often do. Feeling gutted this has happened to you,” wrote Patricia Kearney.
“Every little thing counts in hard times like this...I wish you make a full recovery and get back to playing football with the boys,” wrote Dustin Higgs.
“Fight like you’ve never fought before Josh. You can do it. Thinking of you and all of your family during this tough time. The world needs you,” Karen Townsend wrote.
The club is offering players and members counselling services.
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