The family of a young football player who died following an on-field collision says he gave the gift of life to others.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Antonio Loiacono, 20, died in hospital on Sunday, April 23, after accidental contact during a ground-level contest in a Hills Football League match in South Australia.
The Birdwood Football Club A-grader had lined up in the round one clash against Gumeracha in the Adelaide Hills on April 22.
In a statement released on April 27, Mr Loiacono's family said the "larrikin" footballer had a gift for bringing people together.
"Antonio loved football - the camaraderie of the players, their families, and the local country teams," they said.
"Antonio started playing Auskick when he was just four years old, and we are so thankful for the love and support we've received from the football community over the past few days."
The family said he had wished for his organs to be donated.
"We take comfort in knowing that in his death, others have been given the gift of life," the statement said.
"We humbly request privacy for the family as we make arrangements for Antonio's funeral, where we will celebrate his life and the life he gave to others."
A GoFundMe has so far raised more than $20,000 to support the family.
In a tribute shared earlier in the week on Facebook, Jack Loiacono described his brother Antonio as the "most caring thoughtful person".
"Words can't describe the pain we all feel you're loved by so many," he said.
"Your aura was so special and would put a smile on anyone's face around him."
IN OTHER NEWS:
In a statement, the Hills Football League expressed sympathy to Mr Loiacono's family and friends.
"It is difficult to find the words that express the immense shock, sorrow and heartache that the Hills Football Community is feeling today," league president Joanne Purdie said.
"We ask that the family be afforded privacy at this time as they mourn the tragic loss of Antonio.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Antonio's family, the Birdwood and Gumeracha Football Clubs and extended communities."
Birdwood Football Club said Mr Loiacono had only been with the club for a few months, "but his leadership and care for his new team will have a lasting impact".
His junior club, Hope Valley, also paid respects to the young footballer and his family on Facebook.
It said all players would wear black armbands in his memory.
"Antonio started his junior footy at [Hope Valley] and played 120 games before moving through the Norwood Development squads and switching to Golden Grove," the post read.
"We know there are a lot of our younger senior players who have remained great mates with Antonio through school and footy.
"We are thinking of you all."
