Nathan Fitzgerald, the much-loved Mernda Central College teacher who was placed on end-of-life care after suffering a sudden and freak head injury in a football match over the weekend, has died.
The 27-year-old was critically injured during Epping Football Club’s reserves game against Lalor in Melbourne’s north on Saturday. It has been reported that Fitzgerald first clashed heads with a teammate, was then struck again in the head by a knee or boot, and fell onto the hard cricket pitch in the middle of the oval, hitting his head once more.
As news of his death spread, tributes flooded in for the young teacher, while Go Fund Me donations to support his family climbed into the tens of thousands of dollars. A fundraiser has now raised more than $90,000 for the Fitzgeralds.
Mernda Central College remembered Mr Fitzgerald as an “exceptional young man who brought warmth, energy, kindness and genuine care to every part of his life”.
“He was a deeply valued member of our school community and had a profound impact on the students, staff and families who have had the privilege of knowing him,” the school said.
“Nathan represented the very best of education. He cared deeply about young people, built strong and meaningful relationships, and made those around him feel seen, supported and valued.”
One devastated student said Mr Fitzgerald was his favourite teacher and that he cared about him a lot.
Epping Football Club also paid tribute in a social media statement on Monday night, writing, “Rest in peace and love, Fitzy. 34 – Forever Fitzy”.
Mr Fitzgerald’s younger brother Matthew Fitzgerald, 22, spoke of their final time together, recalling a “special morning” watching the Socceroos game.
He told The Herald Sun his brother was a “gentle soul” and an “infectious person” whose love for family defined him.
“Nathan was a very infectious person, he loved everyone and family was the biggest thing to him,” he said.
“We all cherish family, but Nathan really displayed it. It was his life.
“You only needed one interaction with Nathan to know what a gentle soul he was. There was nothing in his bones that wanted to hurt anyone.
“He’d always tell me he was proud of me, proud of the man I was becoming.”
Matthew said his family’s deep Christian faith had helped carry them through the tragedy.
“Even though he may not be here physically with us anymore, God has taken him home, and we take comfort in that. We’ll see him again on the other side,” he said.
