The family of a teenage footballer in an induced coma have spoken out after ugly scenes marred an under-17 football match at the weekend.
Several red and yellow cards were shown during a violent first half of the grand final between Angle Vale and Two Wells at Adelaide’s Hamley Bridge Oval on Sunday, with a brawl breaking out between players at one point.
Shortly before half-time, Angle Vale’s 17-year-old Henry Nau was taken to hospital after losing consciousness.
Some spectators suggested Henry may have been the big hitter, but that claim has been refuted by Adelaide Plains Football League chairman Michael Vigor.
Henry’s father, Garry Nau, said the family is waiting for more information from doctors.
“Although his initial tests were positive, Henry is still in the ICU at RAH,” Nau said.
He added that his family is grateful for the support they have received since the incident.
“Right now we’re waiting to see what the doctors tell us next,” he said.
Henry Nau (pictured) was put into an induced coma after suffering a head injury during a violent grand final in Adelaide.
‘Thank you again for all the kind words and wishes. We will try to update you as we learn more.
“Our priority is his health and we hope he recovers soon.”
On Sunday evening, an SA Health spokesperson said Nau was in a stable condition.
South African police have investigated the incident and issued the following statement: ‘Police have contacted the match officials and both clubs involved in yesterday’s incident.
“We have reviewed the security cameras and videos filmed during the match and have established that no criminal offence has occurred.”
APFL chairman Vigor told News Corp: “Our concern is with the player and we hope he makes a full recovery. We hope the best results can be achieved.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.”
Nau was attempting to catch the ball when he suffered a head injury late in the first quarter.
Angle Vale Football & Netball Club chairman Simon Selley said on Sunday that Nau was “responding to treatment” and was receiving “the best medical care”.
“Unfortunately, yesterday’s Grand Final day was marred by careless acts of violence,” he wrote on social media, referring to the ugly brawl that broke out separately from the Nau incident.
During the match between Angle Vale and Two Wells several yellow and red cards were shown and at one point the players ended up fighting (pictured: Mr Nau being carried away)
‘We wish you a speedy recovery.’
‘Angle Vale Football and Netball Club does not tolerate this behaviour and will be seeking answers as to how this is allowed to continue to occur in youth football. SAPOL (South African Police) is investigating this matter.’
Two Wells Football Club said: ‘Please be assured that the club will work through the appropriate channels to investigate and address the situation.
‘We urge everyone to be careful with information shared on social media: it is essential to avoid spreading unverified details or speculation.
“Our primary concern remains the well-being of the child and his or her family.”
