Tributes to ‘enormously talented’ teenage goalkeeper who died after collapsing on pitch

Tributes to ‘enormously talented’ teen goalkeeper

Indy Almroth-Wrightand

Ethan Gudge,South of England

Tributes have been paid to a 15-year-old footballer who died after collapsing during a match.

Oxford United academy goalkeeper Amelia Aplin had been playing in a Junior Premier League (JPL) game against Fulham at the club’s training centre in Horspath when she collapsed on Saturday afternoon.

Amelia’s school, Aylesbury High, said she had been a “much loved, bright and talented” student who was a “cherished member” of its community.

Oxford United’s statement on social media following her death prompted messages expressing shock and sympathy for the teenager’s family from numerous football clubs. The JPL said Amelia was “an enormously talented goalkeeper”.

Aylesbury High School headmistress Marieke Forster said the school was “devastated” by Amelia’s death.

“Amelia was a remarkable young woman who brought joy to everyone who knew her,” she said.

“She was a gifted athlete and a dedicated student, but more importantly, she was a friend to many and a vital part of our school.”

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Amelia’s family, her friends, and her teammates at Oxford United during this unimaginably difficult time.”

Wycombe District Swimming Club, where Amelia was a long-time member, also said it was “devastated” and described her as a “beloved friend”.

The swimming club said: “This is an unimaginable loss and Amelia will be truly missed.

“Amelia represented the club in numerous competitions, including county championships, regional championships and Arena League events, including the National Cup Final.

“Our deepest condolences and thoughts go out to her family and friends at this difficult time.”

In a statement, the JPL said: “To lose a young player with such promise at just 15 years old is a tragedy that is felt deeply across our football community.”

Martin Brock, chief executive of the JPL, added: “Amelia wasn’t just a goalkeeper; she was a leader and a bright light in our all stars programme.

“Her loss leaves a void in the JPL that words cannot adequately fill. Our thoughts are with her family, her friends and his teammates at this unspeakably difficult time.”

The JPL said it would find an appropriate way to honour Amelia’s memory in the days ahead.

Fulham FC Women said the club was “shocked and saddened” and its thoughts were with Amelia’s family and friends.

Oxford United said it was offering support to Amelia’s family, players, coaches and staff “impacted by this tragic event”.

Kidlington Football Club was among those who have posted messages, it said: “Everybody at Kidlington Football Club sends our sincere condolences to Amelia’s family and to everyone at Oxford United FC at this incredibly sad time.”

Didcot Town Football Club added: “The thoughts of everyone at Didcot Town and Didcot Town Youth are with the family and friends of Amelia and Oxford United.”

A post from Oxford City Football Club said: “All of us at Oxford City send our sincere condolences to Amelia’s family and everyone at Oxford United at this incredibly sad time.”

Thames Valley Police said Amelia was taken to hospital after she collapsed but died later on Saturday evening.

The force said: “There are no suspicious circumstances and this is now a matter for the coroner.

“Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this most difficult time.”