League mourns the death of young star

THE NRL community is mourning the death of former Canberra Raiders winger Kato Ottio.

News the Papua New Guinea international had died began filtering out on social media early Tuesday before his Super League club – Widnes Vikings – confirmed his death.

It is understood Ottio, 23, was training in Papua New Guinea with the PNG Hunters when he collapsed at training and was taken to Port Moresby Hospital where he later died.

Vikings CEO James Rule said Ottio’s death had shocked the club.

“We are devastated to learn that Kato Ottio has passed away this afternoon. Kato was an incredibly talented player, with a bright future ahead of him in rugby league,” Rule said in a statement.

“This news is all the more tragic because Kato was due to travel to the UK this week to fulfil his dream of playing firstgrade rugby league.

“We had been in regular contact with Kato and were excited to welcome a bright, excited and passionate young man, who had genuine potential for the future.”