One of our own': $30,000 raised after footballer's tragic accident

One of our own': $30,000 raised after footballer's tragic accident describes a fundraiser launched for Nathan Fitzgerald after a severe on-field incident in Melbourne. Fitzgerald, 27, suffered catastrophic head injuries during Epping Football Club’s reserves match against Lalor on Saturday near the city’s north. The club later said his condition deteriorated overnight and he is now in end-of-life care, while requesting privacy for his family. A GoFundMe page was created to ease financial pressure, and at publication more than $30,000 had been donated. The fundraiser says Fitzgerald sustained a serious brain injury while playing, with the community rallying behind him. The incident occurred at Lalor Recreation Reserve on Sydney Crescent shortly before 1 p.m., and Fitzgerald was taken to The Royal Melbourne Hospital in critical condition. The club president said it involved head clashes during a tackle and impact when Fitzgerald hit the ground.