Australian Rugby Club Vows to Champion Mental Health After Youth Player Suicides

The Coomera Cutters Rugby League Club is strengthening its commitment to mental health support following the tragic suicides of two young players, Treyvon Bradshaw, 13, and Kaiyah Kennedy, 12, who died within days of each other. Both boys had connections to the club, with Bradshaw being a current player and Kennedy an alumna.

"It has really hurt our club and all their teammates, they were two of our own and their families were part of our community," said Coomera Cutters president Joe Smith. "I have young kids myself so it has really got me thinking about what more can be done to raise awareness of mental health and support the local community."

The club is already part of the Queensland Rugby League’s Support Squad, a volunteer network focused on mental health. However, Smith indicated that the club intends to expand its efforts.

"At the end of the day, community sport is about community first," Smith stated. "While some children may go on to the NRL, most of the boys just want to be a part of something, see their mates and play sport. Sometimes those two hours a week of training can be a break for them and their chance to let loose, play a bit of footy and be with their mates."

Plans are underway to organize an event for current players to enhance their access to mental health and bereavement support. The club also intends to host fundraisers to honor the memory of Bradshaw and Kennedy.

"One life lost in this way is too many, let alone two, so we’re trying to see if there’s anything we can do as a club to help get things out there," Smith added. "We do not have all the answers, but as a community we want to create a space where people can come, feel supporting and talk to somebody. The families are pretty distraught and as a community we want to do anything we can to help support them. We also want to see more education about mental health and encourage people to speak up if they are struggling – it is never weak to speak."

Bradshaw died on September 26, and Kennedy passed away on October 2. Fundraisers established in their memory have collectively raised over $35,000. The club aims to foster an environment where individuals feel supported and can openly discuss their struggles.