A former World Cup footballer has died suddenly aged 37 while on a trip with friends, leaving behind his wife and two children.
Ryan Ghietti was born in Innisfail in Far North Queensland where he was known as captain of the Cairns-based Northern Pride rugby league team, and as a carpenter, firefighter and family man.
He reportedly suffered a medical episode while on a trip to Victoria with friends.
The footballer is being remembered for his contribution to rugby league across Far North Queensland and on the international stage, where his field goal helped Italy qualify for their first World Cup in 2013.
A fundraiser has been established to support his family following what organisers described as a ‘sudden and unexpected loss’.
David Murphy was a teammate of Ghetti’s at the Northern Pride, taking over captain when he retired. He told News Corp that he was ‘heartbroken’ to learn of his mentor’s sudden passing.
Former Italy international Ryan Ghietti has died suddenly aged 37, leaving behind his wife and two children
Ghietti is being remembered for the field goal that helped Italy qualify for their first Rugby League World Cup in 2013
‘He was one of my best friends and I’m struggling to put into words what his loss means,’ he said.
‘He was one of those blokes who would do absolutely anything for his mates, never hesitated to show up for the people he cared about and had a way of making everyone around him feel like mattered.
‘He was genuine and people like Ghietti don’t come along very often.’
Italy team manager Reno Santaguida also paid tribute to Ghietti, whose representative career included selection in the Italian Azzurri’s 2013 and 2017 World Cup squads.
‘It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of former Italian international Ryan Ghietti,’ Santaguida said.
‘Ryan will forever hold a special place in Italian rugby league history, kicking the unforgettable field goal that helped send Italy to its first-ever Rugby League World Cup in 2013.
‘More than just a moment in history, Ryan was a proud Azzurri whose passion, commitment and love for the jersey will never be forgotten.’
Ghietti played his junior football for Innisfail Brothers before building a career as a versatile halfback, five-eighth and hooker.
He represented Italy in 12 internationals between 2011 and 2016, scoring three tries and a field goal, and was appointed Northern Pride captain for the 2016 season.
His Italian heritage gave him the opportunity to take part in the country’s breakthrough World Cup campaign in 2013, alongside established NRL players Anthony Minichiello, Aidan Guerra and Kade Snowden.
Italy entered that tournament after a stunning warm-up victory over England.
Ghietti was among the squad’s young playmakers whom former Australian international Craig Gower was brought in to mentor during the tournament, after a neck injury prevented Gower from playing.
The campaign was driven by pride in their heritage, with players receiving £200 [$390 AUD] a week to cover living expenses rather than match payments.
Away from international football, Ghietti built strong connections through the Innisfail and Redcliffe rugby league communities and Northern Pride.
A fundraiser has been launched to support Ghietti’s wife Stacey and their children
Italy team manager Reno Santaguida said Ghietti would ‘forever hold a special place in Italian rugby league history’
His former coach David Maiden also paid tribute.
‘His presence will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him – his family loved him, his teammates loved him, his club loved him and he was a bloke you wanted to be around,’ he said.
The Pride released a statement saying his impact on the local community went much further than just his footy as well.
‘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,’ the club statement read.
‘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.’
The family fundraiser also highlighted the friendships he formed through the building industry and firefighting community.
‘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,’ organisers wrote.
They described his wife as someone who had consistently supported others and urged the community to rally around her.
Fundraiser organisers described Ghietti as a ‘much-loved husband, dad, son, brother and mate’
A versatile playmaker, Ghietti played halfback, five-eighth and hooker during his career
‘Stacey has always been the person who shows up for everyone else, offering love, support and a helping hand whenever it’s needed. Now it’s our turn to show up for her.’
Donations are being sought in lieu of flowers to help with unexpected expenses and give Stacey time away from work to care for the children.
Organisers said the contributions would provide ‘some financial breathing room as they navigate life without Ryan’.
‘Every donation, no matter how big or small, will go a long way towards supporting this beautiful family,’ the appeal states.
‘If you can’t donate, sharing this page is just as appreciated.’
The Pride are a feeder club to the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL, with CEO Michael Luck also extending his condolences.
‘The Cowboys were saddened to learn of the tragic news of Ryan’s passing. He was a friend, teammate and colleague of many of our current and former players and staff,’ Luck said.
‘We would like to pass on our condolences to Ryan’s family and friends as well as everyone at the Northern Pride where Ryan was a hugely influential figure in a successful era for the club.’
