Tributes flow for Dolphins' rising star

Redcliffe Dolphins and Queensland Rugby League (QRL) have paid tribute to Liam Hampson who has died on an overseas holiday.

The player’s family posted this morning Dolphins' 24-year-old rising star had died in Barcelona as the result of an “accident”.

He had been missing for 30 hours. Media in Spain suggested it may have been following a fall from a balcony.

Dolphins posted on social media: "The Redcliffe Dolphins are deeply saddened at the terrible news this morning regarding the passing of our player, Liam Hampson.

Deepest condolences

"The club wishes to send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family and his close friends for their loss of a vibrant, wonderful young man.

"The club has been in contact with his family to assist in any way possible and is ensuring Liam’s fellow players and club staff are receiving any and all support they require through this difficult period.

"Those efforts will remain the club’s focus in the immediate days to come, with a fitting tribute to Liam to be made at a more appropriate time."

Rohan Sawyer, CEO of the QRL, led the state-wide organisation’s tribute, saying on its website: “Liam was a much loved and respected member of the rugby league community.

Devastated

“Our hearts go out to Liam’s family and friends, and his many current and former teammates and coaches, including those at his former club the Tweed Seagulls.

“Our thoughts are with everyone at the Dolphins and Seagulls today, as well as the wider rugby league community.

“We have reached out to both clubs to offer support from our wellbeing team.”

Earlier today Liam’s father Brett said on social media: “Waking up to the news no one wants to hear, we are devastated to find out that Liam had an accident and sadly has not survived.

Heartbroken

“We are heartbroken to say the least. Liam had a heart of gold and was a much loved son, brother, grandson, uncle and friend. Words cannot express our grief.

“We cannot thank his mates enough for being there with Liam having the time of his life and assisting in the search for our boy. Our thoughts are with them.”

Hampson came off the bench in this year’s HostPlus Cup grand final helping Dolphins’ second half rally which almost beat Norths Devils.

The hooker played 37 HostPlus Cup games, starting at Tweed Seagulls, where he played 26 games from 2019-21.