The son of an AFL legend has died suddenly at the age of just 24, leaving his family ‘heartbroken and devastated’.
Kye David Hart died on September 21 on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.
His father played in the AFL for the West Coast Eagles in the 1980s and 1990s where he gained All n selection and won a premiership in 1994.
Kye followed in his father’s sporting footsteps and played in the QAFL for the Noosa Tigers.
Family member Jess Hart said on a GoFundMe created to cover funeral expenses that Kye ‘had the biggest heart’.
‘We are absolutely heartbroken and devastated. There aren’t enough words to describe how much we love Kye and how much we will miss him,’ she said.
Ms Hart said the family had lost a son, brother, uncle, nephew and grandchild.
‘Kye’s love and affection was contagious, his cheeky beautiful smile would light up any room. Kye had the biggest heart and only wanted to give and help others,’ she said.
‘In this incredibly difficult time we are reaching out for your support to navigate through the challenging times ahead. The funds raised will go towards covering immediate expenses and funeral costs.
‘We are grateful for your kindness, prayers and support through this tragedy.’
David Hart played 184 games for the West Coast Eagles between 1987 and 1997.
Originally from Victoria, he was raised in the small town of Bruce Rock two hours east of Perth.
He played for West Perth and South Fremantle in the WAFL before he was recruited by West Coast.
He recovered from an injury-plagued 1992 season to play every game in 1994 where he scored a premiership medal with his side’s win in the grand final over Geelong.
‘We send our heartfelt condolences to David Hart and his family on the passing of his son, Kye,’ the club said on Thursday.
‘Sending all our love and support to the Hart family.’
Lifeline: 131 114
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au