Tributes paid to contest tragedy kickboxer, 14
TRIBUTES have been paid to a teenager who collapsed and died during a national kickboxing competition.
Scott Marsden, 14, was taken to hospital after needing urgent medical attention during an English title fight in Leeds on Saturday.
Police are investigating the circumstances of his death but said they are not treating the incident as suspicious.
Facebook posts from Marsden’s All Styles Kickboxing in Sheffield, where Scott was a member, described how the fight, at Leeds Martial Arts College in Morley, was stopped on Saturday night.
The message said: “Unfortunately, (Saturday) night’s English title fight had to be stopped due to Scotty needing immediate medical attention.”
It continued: “There was no way to foresee the fight ending in such a way.
“Everyone is still in shock as there were simply no signs to suggest the fight needed to be stopped.
“The referee stepped in to protect Scott as soon as he could, which meant Scott was laid down and straight into recovery position.”
The club said training has been cancelled until further notice and asked people to respect the family’s privacy.
World Kickboxing Association (WKA) England president Jon Green posted on Facebook: “Not just WKA but the world of kickboxing is mourning such a well-loved and respected fighter and sportsman.
“One of our finest champions in every sense in the ring and true ambassador of the values out of the ring.
“A smile that lit you up to see his face and receive it.
“In every sense it does not seem real or even possible.
“It must be said there was no failings on either team.”
Mr Green said ringside paramedics “fought tirelessly to keep Scott with us” but he criticised the 999 response.
“Our sport is a contact sport but every precaution is in place to have protection and to be able to respond to keep our fighters safe.”
An online fund has been set up following Scott’s death.
Charlotte Rowlett, who set up the site, said: “Everything Scotty did he did with passion and a confidence that was a pleasure to behold. He was the most wonderful, talented boy.”