death – Obituary News : South Sydney Rabbitohs Pay Tribute to Kyle Turner with Retired Jersey Number
South Sydney Rabbitohs will retire jersey number 15 this weekend in memory of former premiership-winner Kyle Turner, who tragically passed away at the age of 31. Turner, a versatile forward, played 91 first-grade games for the Rabbitohs between 2014 and 2019.
In addition to retiring his jersey number, the Rabbitohs will wear black armbands as a tribute to Turner during their upcoming match against Newcastle on Sunday. The news of Turner’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community, with many expressing their grief and offering condolences to his family and friends.
Rabbitohs chief executive Blake Solly described Turner as an amazing human being who epitomized the country boy rugby league player. He praised Turner for his toughness and uncompromising play on the field, while also highlighting his kind and generous nature off the field. Solly expressed that Turner will be held close to their hearts not only for the rest of this season but also in the years to come.
Turner’s career highlights include starting from the bench in the Rabbitohs’ historic grand final victory in 2014. He played a crucial role in the team’s success, featuring in 24 games during his debut season. He also represented NSW Country in the last City vs Country fixture in 2017 and played for the Indigenous All Stars in 2015 and 2017.
Unfortunately, injuries hampered Turner’s time in first-grade. He suffered a severe neck injury during the 2015 All Stars match, which required him to undergo disc replacement surgery. Despite the setbacks, Turner remained a fan favorite at Redfern and received the Burrow Supporters Group Appreciation Award at the club’s awards night in 2016.
In 2019, Turner fell out of favor under the Rabbitohs’ new coach Wayne Bennett, who advised him to seek opportunities elsewhere from 2020 onwards. Turner returned to his hometown of Coonabarabran in northern New South Wales, where he played for the local team, the Coonabarabran Unicorns, and pursued a career as a schoolteacher.
The Coonabarabran Unicorns will also pay tribute to Turner by wearing black armbands during their upcoming match. The community is mourning the loss of a beloved member and remembering the positive impact Turner had both on and off the field.
The cause of Turner’s death remains unknown, and the rugby league community is left in shock and disbelief. As news of his passing spread, various helpline numbers were shared to provide support to those who may be struggling with their mental health.
South Sydney Rabbitohs and their fans are united in their grief over the loss of Kyle Turner. The retired jersey number serves as a lasting tribute to a player who will always be remembered for his contributions to the team and his enduring spirit..
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