'Tragic loss of life': Rugby league rocked by death of Mitch Cronin, 27
The rugby league community is reeling following the death of former Canberra and Brisbane player Mitch Cronin.
The 27-year-old reportedly died after a ‘training accident’ at his parents’ home in Brisbane on Friday.
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The Courier Mail is reporting Cronin was found face-down in a backyard pool after doing a weights session.
An autopsy will be completed, with Cronin reportedly suffering a suspected heart attack.
“It is a tragic loss of life,” Cronin’s manager Paul Hogan told the Courier Mail.
“He really was a lovely young man. Everyone in the Queensland Cup held him in such high regard.
“This has left Wynnum club, their players and myself totally shocked.
“He was an outstanding young man and my thoughts are with his family. We are all shattered.”
The hooker had stints with the Raiders and Broncos and was club captain of Queensland Cup side Wynnum-Manly Seagulls.
Cronin never made it to first grade but played at the Auckland Nines for both Canberra and Brisbane.
He reportedly still had aspirations of playing first grade after captaining Wynnum-Manly in the 2019 Queensland Cup grand final.
Tributes pour in for Mitch Cronin
Former Canberra teammate Jordan Rapana led the tributes on social media.
“Man I still don’t want to believe it!” Rapana wrote on Instagram alongside a series of photos.
“You got me through some of the toughest times of my life! I love you my brother, Fly high u absolute legend love u forever brother.”
QRL competitions manager Dave Maiden said Cronin was an outstanding person and leader who inspired those around him.
“Mitchell was a fantastic leader of men and a quality player,” Maiden said.
“More importantly though, he was a quality human being who will be mourned by many and missed by all.
“The people who came across him will be in state of disbelief ... he's one of the good ones.”
The Seagulls hooker, who also worked as a teacher aide, was one of the Queensland Cup’s standouts in a distinguished 105-game career.
Seagulls' chief executive Hanan Laban described him as a quiet achiever who was fearless on the field, yet humble and modest.
“We are devastated by the passing of our captain Mitch Cronin and we send out love to Chris, Andrea, Ben, Amy and the Cronin family,” Laban said.
“Mitch was an exceptional young man who was loved and respected by his teammates, his coaching staff, our supporters and the wider rugby league community.
“From the moment he arrived at Wynnum he embodied the values of the Seagulls through his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and deep care for his teammates and his club.”
Terribly sad to wake up to the reports about Mitch Cronin. Thinking of his family and all the players who have run out alongside and against him. Far, far too young. Seems like yesterday he was an up-and-coming star at Canberra.
— Scott Bailey (@ScottBaileyAAP) April 17, 2020
Terribly sad day for rugby league and the @WynnumSeagulls with news of the death of club captain Mitch Cronin. Just 27 years old. Give strength to his family and friends. Rest in Peace Mitch. @IntrustSuperCup @QLDmaroons @FOXNRL
— Andrew Voss (@AndrewVossy) April 17, 2020
Rugby league in shock following the death of @WynnumSeagulls captain Mitch Cronin at just 27 years of age.
Awful news.— The Mole (@9_Moley) April 17, 2020
Very said news hearing about the passing of Mitch Cronin. Played with him @WynnumSeagulls . Tough as nails on the field and a gentle soul off it. R.I.P mate ❤️
— David Mead (@davidmead411) April 17, 2020
Rest In Peace Mitch Cronin. Such a terrible accident. What a tragedy. Thoughts with his family, teammates & many friends. Gone far too young. Life is very precious.
— Peter Psaltis (@peterp79) April 17, 2020
with AAP