Rugby league player James Ackerman has passed away in hospital two days after suffering a head injury while playing for the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
The 25-year-old suffered a blow to the head in a tackle five minutes into a Queensland Cup game against North Devils on Saturday.
After receiving medical treatment on the field at Bishop Park, he was taken to hospital in Brisbane and the match was abandoned.
Queensland Rugby League managing director Robert Moore said in a statement today: "We send our deepest condolences to James's family and friends, and the Sunshine Coast club.
"This is obviously a very difficult and traumatic time for a considerable amount of people, and we ask for the privacy of the family to be respected. Our immediate priority is to provide support for the family as well as the players, coaches and referees who were involved in this game.
"One of the strengths of rugby league is the game's ability to rally behind its own, and I have no doubt this will happen throughout this challenging period."
Ackerman leaves behind two children - Olliver and Milly.
