St Mary’s Sporting Club is mourning the tragic death of one of their players, Brittany McLaughlin.
McLaughlin debuted for the Geelong VFLW in the seventh round of the 2022 season, her first of four with the club.
She also played for the VAFA outfits Caulfield Grammarians, Port Melbourne Colts and Craigieburn.
The club confirmed on Thursday that they would not be playing this weekend as they all come to terms with the loss of one of their beloved players.
Tributes from other clubs have also poured in for McLaughlin who sadly passed this week.
On Thursday the club confirmed the news, saying they were deeply saddened by the loss of their first-team player.
Brittany McLaughlin tragically died suddenly last week, and is being mourned by her club
In a statement on Facebook, St Mary’s Sporting club wrote, ‘St Mary’s Sporting Club is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Brittany McLaughlin and wishes to extend our condolences to Britt’s family, friends and teammates.
Britt joined St Mary’s in 2022 and immediately became a part of our family. Britt’s love for her club and her teammates was evident and infectious.
‘She had the biggest heart and would always check in on her teammates, on and off the field, often putting their needs ahead of her own.
‘She has been awarded both most determined and players’ player, an award which is voted by her teammates.
‘Britt was a club person through and through. You would find her in the canteen, helping at Auskick, selling raffle tickets at Ham and Crownies, helping behind the bar and organising social events for both the senior women and the club!
‘We were all so lucky to have known Britt. She will be so missed by all of us at St Mary’s.’
Among those who paid tribute to McLaughlin was AFL Barwon who also took to social media, writing, ‘Our thoughts are with Brittany’s family, friends, teammates and all members of the St Mary’s Sporting Club during this incredibly difficult time.
‘Brittany’s passing will be felt deeply across the local football community, and we acknowledge the significant impact this has had on those closest to her.
‘St Mary’s senior female football teams will not participate this weekend as the club and playing group take time to grieve and support one another.
‘AFL Barwon asks the broader football community to respect the privacy of Brittany’s loved ones and the St Mary’s community at this time.’
