Footy World is coming together for the “vibrant and likeable” teen star who passed away at the age of 16
- The footy community has donated more than $27,000 to Samara Whitney’s family
- The 16-year-old footy star tragically passed away earlier this week
- If you need support, please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
- READ MORE: Footy star found dead at age 30
A fundraiser set up after the tragic death of Samara Whitney has passed $27,000 as the football world came together to support the 16-year-old’s family.
Footy is in mourning after Wynyard Football Club and Tasmania Devils program member Whitney passed away on Tuesday.
“It is with great sadness and heartbreak that we acknowledge the sudden passing of Samara Whitney,” Wynyard FC said on social media.
“Samara has been part of the WFC family since juniors and played an integral role in our Senior Women’s Premiership this year.
‘A lively and likeable young lady who earned her spurs at the WFC as a passionate and talented player, who had a great future ahead of her.
A fundraiser following Samara Whitney’s death raised more than $27,000
“Our young weapon, our pocket rocket, our number 2… such a positive influence for everyone. Someone who had a great relationship with both our club and the wider community. This will last forever.
“A true star that shone brightly both within and without.
“We thank you for letting us be a part of your journey and for bringing so much light(s) of joy to so many lives.”
a GoFundMe page has been created in an effort to “give Samara the beautiful farewell she deserves,” with donations totaling over $27,000, an amazing effort by the footy community.
The fundraiser description reads, “Tuesday, September 5, 2023 is a day we will all never forget.
“It was the day we learned the tragic news that Samara Whitney #2 was no longer with us.
Since then, time has stood still for her family, friends, school community and sports clubs as we all begin to grieve and navigate life without our special girl.
“With the permission of Samara’s parents Kym and Seton, we’ve set up this page to help give their daughter the beautiful farewell she deserves.
‘The Whitney & Smitheram families are very much loved in our small community and if you would like to donate please click the donate button and feel free to leave a message for Samara or her family.
‘Lots of love to you all❤️’
Whitney tragically passed away this week at the age of 16, sending the football world into mourning
AFL Tasmania paid tribute to Whitney on Wednesday night, releasing the following statement: “AFL Tasmania extends its deepest condolences to the Wynyard Football Club, North West Football League and Tasmania Devils communities following the sudden passing of Samara Whitney.
A beloved member of the Wynyard Cats and Tasmania Devils program, Samara also represented the NWFL in the Women’s All Stars Series this year.
“Our thoughts are with Samara’s friends, family and members of the Tassie footy community.”
The Wynyard Football Club will open its doors to the public on September 8 to pay their respects to Samara.
Her school will also provide counseling and support services to help students, staff and their families come to terms with her tragic loss.
Money is being raised to ‘give Samara the beautiful farewell she deserves’
like you support needed, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636