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A STAR Australian Rugby League star who helped secure South Sydney’s first title in 43 years suddenly died at the age of 31.
Father of three Kyle Turner died Friday, as tributes pour in for the much loved member of the Rugby League.
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The beloved player has been remembered as a “gentle giant” with an “infectious smile”.
Turner played over 130 games with the South Sydney Club, and represented the Indigenous All Stars.
During his debut year, Turner suffered six concussions in just 12 months, sparking concern and playing a part in the creation of the Head Injury Assessment guidelines.
He won the fan-voted Burrow Player of the Year in 2016 after being sidelined following another concussion.
The CEO of Rabbitohs, Blake Solly, said: “Kyle was an amazing human being.
“He epitomised the country boy – a tough, uncompromising player on the field, yet a lovely, generous man off the field.
“Over his nine years with our club he contributed a lot of time to [Rabbitohs charity arm] Souths Cares and was very popular amongst his teammates, colleagues, our members and supporters alike.
“We offer our full support to his family and friends at this very difficult time, and he will always be remembered at our club as a man that delivered a premiership to the Rabbitohs, but also a man that connected deeply with his communities.
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“We will hold him close to our hearts for the rest of this season and in the years to come. Vale Kyle Turner.”
Teammates affectionately nicknamed Turner “Big Dog” for his fearless defence plays.
Former teammate Thomas Burgess said: “Absolutely tragic. Lost for words when I heard the news. RIP Big Dog.
“Will always be a truly loved Rabbitoh and in all our hearts.
“The whole RL community are for his friends and family.’’
Turner joined the Rabbitohs in 2011 and won the club’s under-20s player of the year.
Turner retired in 2020 where he worked as a physical education teacher, before returning to the sport in 2021.
His team plans to wear black arm bands to honour, and are retiring his jersey.
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