According to the Cairns Post, Ghietti suffered a medical episode while in Victoria. It is understood he was on a trip with friends when the tragedy occurred.
A fundraiser has been created to assist his family, who have described his death as a “sudden and unexpected loss”. The GoFundMe page said: “Following the sudden and unexpected loss of Ryan, a much-loved husband, dad, son, brother and mate, we are coming together to support Stacey, Grace and James as they face a future they never imagined,” it said. “Ryan was an important part of so many communities, particularly the Innisfail Rugby League community, the Redcliffe Rugby League community, the Italian Rugby League team and Northern Pride. “He also built lasting friendships and connections through the building industry and firefighting community, touching the lives of so many people along the way.”
Ghietti began his rugby league journey with the Innisfail Leprechauns before becoming a key figure for Northern Pride. He went on to represent Italy in 12 Tests and played for the national side between 2011 and 2016. He also represented Italy at the 2013 and 2017 World Cups.
Northern Pride issued a statement offering condolences to his family and noting his record at the club. “With an incredible 165 appearances in the Pride jersey, Ryan holds the distinction of being the club’s most-capped player, a remarkable achievement that reflects his dedication, consistency and commitment to Northern Pride,” the Pride said. “Beyond his achievements on the field, Ryan remained a familiar and much-loved presence at Northern Pride home games, regularly supporting the club from the stands. “His absence will be deeply felt, particularly among the familiar faces in the club’s aptly named Legends Bar and our past players group called the Old Boys. “Ryan’s connection to Northern Pride extended well beyond his playing career, and he will forever hold a special place in the club’s history and the hearts of those who knew him.”
Former Northern Pride coach and current QRL statewide competitions manager David Maiden also paid tribute, saying Ghietti “knew how to enjoy himself”. “Ghetz was a tough competitor who also knew how to enjoy himself,” Maiden said. “We brought him back to the club from Redcliffe where he was playing Colts as he was a proud Far North Queenslander who wanted to come home and he never took a backward step, eventually going on to become captain and the most capped Northern Pride player.”
