A touching memorial has been erected on the field were young footballer Antonio Loiacono suffered a fatal injury mid-game.
On Saturday night, the 20-year-old Adelaide man was airlifted to hospital before he was declared brain dead on Sunday. The incident occurred after Mr Loiacono was hit as he went to pick up the ball.
His family said his organs will be donated in multiple operations on Tuesday.
Honouring his death, a cross and flowers have been placed on the oval by local community organisations.
A Facebook post from his Birdwood Football Club said it was a touching gesture to the passionate AFL player.
“The BFNC would like to thank the Gumeracha RSL and the Gumeracha Football Club for donating a cross and laying it on the Gumeracha oval in memory of Antonio,” the post read.
“If anyone would like to lay flowers or similar at the cross please feel welcome to do so. Vale Antonio.”
Mr Lociacono had played with the club for merely a few months before Saturday night’s tragedy. In a previous post, the club said: “His leadership and care for his new team will have a lasting impact”.
Since his death, Mr Loiacono has been remembered for his love of the sport, with tributes flowing from friends and family.
His 19-year-old younger brother Jack Loiacono said the Adelaide tradie said his brother was comparing and “unique” person, who “lived and breathed” AFL.
“He just wanted to make sure everyone was having a positive time. He would wear the loudest shirt, the goofiest shoes. He was so unique,” he told NCA NewsWire.
“Everyone who knew him loved him. He was just the most respectful, loving and caring person.
“He lit up the room and put smiles of everyone’s faces when he walked in.”
Mr Loiacono’s former coach, Sean Williams said he was an “inspiring young player and an absolute joy to have around the footy club”.
“You always bought joy to the team with a great sense of laughter and love for a game of footy!!” he wrote on Facebook.
“Very grateful for the time we had together and thinking of everyone who is suffering your loss and grieving at this time especially your family and friends. RIP mate.”
CEO of the state’s governing AFL body (South Australian National Football League), Darren Chandler said community was “deeply shocked and saddened” by Mr Loiacono’s death.
“We join the South Australian football community in mourning his tragic death following a game on Saturday evening,” he said.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Antonio’s family, friends and teammates and stand ready to support the Birdwood Football Club and the Hills Football League, as well as Gumeracha Football Club, during this incredibly difficult time.”
