Young footballer dies after ‘suffering cardiac arrest’ during match

Kieran Galpin

His team have released a statement confirming the news

A youth footballer playing for West Bridgford Colts FC has died from a suspected cardiac arrest that occurred during a match on Tuesday night.

Dylan Rich collapsed during his team’s match against Boston United on Tuesday night, with the match being brought to a halt so he could be given emergency medical aid. Two ambulances and an emergency response car were sent to West Bridgeford’s home stadium on Regatta way but he remained unresponsive.

A witness at the stadium said Rich continued to be unresponsive despite the numerous defibrillator shocks and so, was rushed to hospital.

Club Statementhttps://t.co/4dRDWlCHDf

— West Bridgford Colts FC (@wbcoltsfc) September 5, 2021

West Bridgford have now released a statement confirming the heartbreaking news, which reads: “It is with great sadness that, following the events of Thursday evening, we have to announce the tragic passing of Dylan Rich.

“This news has left everyone involved with our club devastated and heartbroken. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his parents Mike & Anna, his sister Lucy & Dylan’s family, friends and teammates.”

They continued: “The club would like to thank everyone within the Colts and wider football community for the hundreds of heartfelt messages and thoughts that we have received over the past few days.

“The Club will provide all the support it can to those players and club officials impacted by this tragic event, but for now, there are no further words possible, and we ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”

A comment on the post read: “Absolutely heartbreaking. So sorry for all his family and friends, fly high, Dylan x.”

Another comment read: “I am so so sorry for your loss thoughts with you all xx.

I am so so sorry for your loss 😢 thoughts with you all xx

Could someone at the club please get in contact with me. I am in the process of raising money for another defibrillator for a grassroots football team. I would like to dedicate this one to this young man and your team ❤️

— Amanda ⚽️❤️ (@Amanda28_84) September 5, 2021

“Could someone at the club please get in contact with me. I am in the process of raising money for another defibrillator for a grassroots football team. I would like to dedicate this one to this young man and your team.”