Antonio Loiacono, a utility player for Birdwood Football Club, died after sustaining critical injuries during a match against Gumeracha.
The incident occurred at Gumeracha Oval in the Adelaide Hills. Loiacono was airlifted to the Royal Adelaide Hospital after the collision occurred in the final quarter of the game.
A family member of Loiacono revealed that he had suffered from “too many” concussions in the past, which made him unfit for playing football. The family member did not want to be named.
Antonio Loiacono cause of death
Loiacono’s heart stopped for 30 minutes following the on-field collision. Paramedics revived him at the scene, but he was later taken off life support.
Loiacono’s family was with him when he died, 24 hours after sustaining his injuries. The result of the match between Birdwood and Gumeracha remains pending.
Loiacono was a well-known country footballer who had played for Norwood’s Under 18 side in 2019 and Waikerie in the Riverland Football League last season.
The Great Southern Football League extended its condolences to Loiacono’s family and friends.
The SANFL also offered its support to the family and club. Another family member, Jack Loiacono, paid tribute to his cousin on Facebook, stating that Antonio was his best friend and his “guidance”.
Aiva Arthur
