Rabbitohs premiership winner Kyle Turner has died, aged 31.
The versatile former South Sydney forward played 91 NRL games in the red and green throughout his career, helping the side to a drought-breaking grand final victory in his debut 2014 season.
Turner also represented both NSW Country and Indigenous All Stars during his career and was a beloved figure at Redfern throughout his six-year career.
An ongoing neck injury brought a premature end to Turner's career, leading him back to his home town of Coonabarabran where he played for his local club.
Souths have now confirmed the news, with the players to wear black armbands during Sunday's clash with the Knights and his No.15 jersey will be retired for the match.
“Kyle was an amazing human being,” Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly said in a club statement.
“He epitomised the country boy rugby league player. He was such a tough, uncompromising player on the field, yet a lovely, generous man off the field.
“Over his nine years with our club he contributed a lot of time to Souths Cares and was very popular amongst his teammates, colleagues, our members and supporters alike.
“We offer our full support to his family and friends at this very difficult time, and he will always be remembered at our club as a man that delivered a premiership to the Rabbitohs, but also a man that connected deeply with his communities.
“We will hold him close to our hearts for the rest of this season and in the years to come."
Turner's local club Coonabarabran Unicorns changed their Facebook image to indicate the side would also wear black armbands this weekend.
The Sporting News offer our condolences to Turner's family, friends and teammates.
If you or anyone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via lifeline.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
