League: Teenager dies after on-field injury

Ronan Costello, who has died at the age of 17. Photo / Huddersfield Giants

Huddersfield academy player Ronan Costello, 17, has died in hospital, the Giants have announced.

The centre or second row forward had been on a life support machine since being airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary after being hurt playing for Huddersfield in an Under-19s game against Salford on Saturday.

The match was abandoned after the freak accident.

A statement by the Super League club said: "It is with regret that Huddersfield Giants wish to inform everyone of the passing of 17-year-old academy player Ronan Costello today.

"Ronan was airlifted to the LGI on Saturday afternoon after he was injured during the Giants academy game with Salford.

"The club have been asked by the family to send their thanks for the messages of support they have received to date and have requested that all well-wishers now allow them to grieve and respect their privacy.

"The Huddersfield Giants are collating all messages, cards and tweets that they receive to pass to the family at the appropriate time."

Huddersfield's academy coach Chris Thorman said on his Twitter account: "Rest in peace, young man. You were a pleasure to be around."

The Costello family issued a statement, saying: "We are absolutely devastated to lose Ronan so tragically and suddenly.

"Ronan was a loving and caring 17-year-old lad who was dedicated to his family and friends. He was a credit to all of his family and we are so proud of him and his achievements.

"He was passionate about rugby and rugby was a big part of his life. We acknowledge that this was a tragic accident.

"As a family, we wish to extend our appreciation to Leeds General Infirmary's Neuro Intensive Care Unit for their dedication, respect and efforts in caring for Ronan and to the Giants, especially Andy (Kelly) and Richard (Thewlis) who have been a great support to us all during such a difficult time.

"We would like to thank everyone who has supported us, but we now need some privacy and time to grieve.

"We are all truly heartbroken and Ronan will be missed and forever in our hearts."

- AAP