The football community has come together to honour a rising star who died unexpectedly in his sleep at the age of 19, with tributes pouring in for a “beautiful gentle soul”.
Law student Aurelia Haynes, who played for New South Wales Central Coast WPL side Umina United, passed away last month.
In an emotional farewell to their teammate, the club played a match in her honour on Sunday 11 August against Woongarrah FC at Umina Oval.
Aurelia’s photo, her club shirt with the number 24 and a bouquet of flowers were placed on a chair, which was also surrounded by flowers for the specially named ‘Aurelia Haynes Memorial Round’.
“It was an emotional day as we gathered to pay our respects to Aurelia, welcomed Aurelia’s parents Philip and Kate, and the outpouring of love was on display throughout the afternoon,” the club posted on its Facebook page.
‘We would like to thank everyone who came to hug the girls as they played in tribute to their teammate and friend Aurelia.
‘To Kaine, the players and the Woongarrah supporters – your kindness, compassion and support was incredible – we can’t thank you enough. And to the two lovely ladies who brought flowers, thank you.’
During her high school years, Aurelia was part of the Canberra United Academy program to foster future stars and attended the all-girls Merici College in the ACT.
Aurelia Haynes was a rising soccer star who died in her sleep at the age of 19 in the early hours of July 30.
After graduating from the Academy, Aurelia played for Northbridge NPL U20 and Hills District before joining Umina.
She was also scheduled to compete in the UniSport Futsal Championships in Canberra for Macquarie University, which started on Tuesday.
Announcing his death on August 2, on July 30, Umina said: ‘Aurelia brought her youthful energy, her friendly smile, her dedication, her gentle nature and her love of the game to our club.
The comments section was filled with expressions of shock and grief from other clubs and those who knew Aurelia.
“So sad, beautiful young lady. I worked with her in Gosford… it’s been a tough week at the office since I heard the news,” one person wrote.
“So young and beautiful. All our love to her parents.”
“Our deepest condolences to Aurelia’s family, friends and teammates at this sad time,” said another.
Aurelia’s Central Coast team, Umina United, played a specially named round ‘Aurelia Haynes Memorial Round’ to honour their club member.
Aurelia’s Umina United WPL team played against Woongarrah FC to honour Aurelia at Umina Oval
‘It was a pleasure watching you play, you will be missed by many.’
Aurelia’s former clubs also paid tribute.
“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Aurelia Haynes who left us peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday at the age of 19,” Northbridge FC posted on Instagram.
‘Aurelia’s journey with Northbridge FC began as a dedicated young goalkeeper in our MiniRoos programme.
‘Her talent and passion for the game led her to excel in the NFC Academy, NPL and numerous futsal and friendship teams, including a notable season at the Canberra United Academy.
‘Aurelia’s love for the club and her teammates shone through in every match and training session.
‘She cherished the fun and success they shared, from triumphant Kanga Cup campaigns to the undefeated Northbridge Bulls U20 team of 2022.
‘Her spirit, skill and camaraderie will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Aurelia’s family during this difficult time. She will always hold a special place in the hearts of everyone at Northbridge FC. May she rest in peace.”
Commentators also shared their sadness at the teenager’s passing.
“She was a wonderful teammate and person who will be greatly missed,” wrote one person. “My condolences to her family,” wrote another.
“I was very saddened to hear of her passing. I remember her love of football when she played with Michael when she was little. I wish her eternal love and happiness.”
Aurelia combined her love of football with her law studies at Macquarie University in Sydney, which she went on to represent in futsal.
In a statement, Canberra United FC said they were “devastated to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of former Academy member Aurelia Haynes.”
“Canberra United FC sends its sincere condolences to Aurelia’s family and friends, who will be deeply missed by all those close to her,” the statement read.
Hills United Football Club also paid tribute to him on Facebook.
“Today our “Women of the Hills” gathered in honor and memory of Aurelia Haynes, who sadly passed away peacefully in her sleep recently,” the post read.
“We were humbled and honoured to have Aurelia’s father Phil join us on the field today, joining the umpires as fourth official for our First Grade game.”
‘Together with the Southern Districts Football Association team, we thank Catherine Cannuli as both the senior women’s and women’s teams respectfully honoured Aurelia with a minute’s silence and black wristbands worn throughout the day.
‘Aurelia’s love for the game with her talent and passion saw her excel throughout an impressive NPL career over the years and it was a privilege to have Aurelia as part of Hills United Football Club.
‘Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Aurelia’s family during this difficult time.’
No cause of death has been made public.
A funeral service for Aurelia was celebrated at St Stephen’s Anglican Church in the northern Sydney suburb of Willoughby on 21 August.
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