The AFLW has been left in shock after Heather Anderson passed away. She was only 28-years-old.

Heather was the 2017 premiership winner and her team, The Adelaide Crows have said her death was “unexpected”, with details left still unknown.

“The Adelaide Football Club is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Premiership player Heather Anderson. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends,” a statement from the Crows read.

In a statement, AFLW boss Nicole Livingstone expressed her sympathy to Anderson’s family and friend. Livingstone says the former star was a “much-loved and respected teammate”.

“Words cannot express the deep sadness among the AFL and AFLW community at this time. Our sincerest condolences are to the Anderson family,” Livingstone said.

“On behalf of the AFL, I would like to express my deepest compassion to Heather’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Sarah Perkins, the Former Crows posted a photo of Anderson with the caption “family forever” and three love hearts in the Crows colours.

Heather was a former army medic before becoming the first Northern Territory-based player drafted by the Adelaide Crows. She had immediate success as part of the team, playing eight games for Adelaide and winning the inaugural AFLW premiership.

In the grand final Anderson unfortunately suffered a dislocated shoulder which required a second surgery on her right shoulder, both in the span of a year.

The injury left her unable to play, forcing her to announce an indefinite retirement from the AFL.

Image: Getty