Dakota Baldwin-Wright had taken 'a year for herself'. He died in Prague at the age of 25
A young football star who was hit by a train and killed while traveling in Europe had taken a year off from the sport to see the world.
Dakota Baldwin-Wright, 25 – who played 44 games for WAFL side the Perth Demons – was struck by a train in Prague, Czech Republic, on Christmas Eve.
A translated statement from Prague city police said Mr Baldwin-Wright was hit around 6am at Vršovice station.
“Despite intensive braking of the train, the driver was unable to avoid a collision,” the police said.
“According to criminologists, it was most likely an unfortunate accident.”
Mr Baldwin-Wright's family are now traveling to the Czech Republic, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade providing consular assistance.
A younger photo of Mr. Baldwin-Wright with a friend
Baldwin-Wright's mother posted a Facebook update telling family and friends that she was unable to respond to their condolence messages at this time.
Perth Football Club chairman Adrian Barich said in a statement that the club was “shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden loss” of Mr Baldwin-Wright.
“Dakota was involved in an accident while traveling abroad,” he said.
'He was an outstanding young man who was much admired and will always be remembered for his contribution to the club.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we would like to send our thoughts to Dakota's family and friends at this difficult time.
'His death has also turned our playing group upside down, as he was a respected member of our senior team.
“Our priority in the coming weeks will be to support his family, our players and the PFC community.”
“A high quality young man, highly respected, highly coachable and a great teammate. Will never be forgotten'
Mat Bateman of Manning Rippers said in a social media post that it was a tragic loss.
“A high quality young man, highly respected, highly coachable and a great teammate. Will never be forgotten,” he said.
Blake Johnson wrote: 'This is devastating news, he was a great teammate to play with over the years and an even greater guy off the field.'
Ryan Keatley wrote: “Lots of fond memories of Dakota from the many years I spent behind the bar at Perth Football Club. The memories will be cherished forever.”
Simon Collins wrote: 'I'm still trying to take it all in. A young man who has a year to himself, sees the sights of the world and now he doesn't.'