Sharks ‘devastated’ after cycling death
SOUTHPORT Sharks have paid tribute to a teammate who was killed in a cycling accident in the Northern Territory on Monday night.
Alexander Aurrichio, 30, was on a bicycle riding inbound along Gunn Point Rd at Howard Springs when he collided with a Nissan Patrol.
Southport NEAFL co-captain Andrew Boston said the players were left devastated after being notified yesterday.
“We are all in a bit of shock at the moment,” Boston said.
“We are devastated and struggling a bit. We are going to catch up as a playing group tomorrow (Wednesday) at the football club.
“When he first came to the club you could see he was a big man with a strong voice but everyone gravitated to him. He is a bloke everyone wanted to be around.
“His training standards around the football club, he was the best trainer at our football club and everyone strived to match how professional he was.
“He was one of the best clubmen at the Southport Sharks. He got around every single player and everyone came to him for advice.”
Originally from New York, Aurrichio moved to Australia in November 2014 with the dream of becoming one of the handful of American sportsmen to play in the AFL.
Last year, Aurrichio opened up to the Bulletin about six months he spent sidelined with injury and questioned whether he would ever return to the field.
But he proved himself wrong when he made his NEAFL debut for the Sharks in a win against Redland.
“It was a great day and I was stoked to run out there with the boys,” Aurrichio said at the time.
“I was humbled, the players all got around me and again after I kicked my first goal. I felt like I was really part of the club so I was really grateful.”
Aurrichio was a ruckman for the Waratahs Football Club Men’s Premier League at the time of the fatal crash, and was regularly celebrated for his skill and imposing size.
The Waratahs Football Club issued a statement, extending its condolences to Aurrichio’s parents and siblings in the US.
“Please take some comfort in knowing he was loved by his family spreading across Australia,” the statement said.
“Rooch’s mates at Waratahs Football Club are currently getting together to support each other after the loss of our beloved teammate.
“Rooch came to the club and made an instant impact, with his strong play on the field, and even stronger character off the field, and quickly became a favourite at Waratahs.
“He had recently moved permanently to Darwin and was immersing himself in the lifestyle, taking in all the Territory had to offer including fishing and camping,” the statement said.
“Messages of condolences have been coming from far and wide, and he had clearly touched all who met him, with everyone in disbelief that we have lost such a loveable larrikin.
“Rooch will be remembered fondly and sorely missed. Love you Rooch, Hoorah baby!”
The driver of the car, and witnesses, stopped to help Aurrichio but he died at the scene.