The Murwillumbah Mustangs are preparing themselves for a grand final match against Cudgen despite the death of their teammate Grant Cook during the semi-final against the Casino Cougars on Sunday afternoon.
But they have been spared a mid-week replay while grieving for their lost teammate.
Sunday’s game was abandoned at half time, soon after 28-year-old Mr Cook left the ground feeling unwell.
The popular Tweed Heads fruiterer and father of two later collapsed and went into cardiac arrest.
Mr Cook was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital. But he could not be revived and his life support system was turned off on Monday morning.
Police are reviewing footage of the match to help them determine whether he sustained a blow during the match.
NRRRL president Brian Ricks said the half-time score of 8-4 will stand.
Outpouring of grief
There has been an outpouring of grief and support for Mr Cook’s wife Colleen and two young children following her heartbreaking post on Facebook on Sunday.
‘My beautiful husband Grant is now an angel watching over us. Life can be so cruel. He has left a huge hole in my heart and I know all family, especially his parents, are hurting trying to understand this tragedy,’ she wrote.
‘I do feel immensely proud of Grant. He helped so many, he loved unconditionally, he forgave others and taught me to do the same. He actually taught me many things. And held me together in my darkest days.
‘He had the most beautiful blue eyes which both our children were blessed genetically with so that’s comforting I will see him in our children daily. My worries would always disappear with his presence, his beautiful smile and his kind words on how it will all be ok.
‘I always did say I would love you forever and a day. And you know I will,’ she concluded her post.
The Mustangs have established a fundraising appeal for the family.
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