The club pays tribute to the very young soccer player who tragically passed away
Before the start of the match between Oxford United and Blackburn Rovers, soccer players and fans observed a minute’s silence for the tragic death of Amelia Aplin, a very young soccer player from the Yellows girls’ academy who died tragically last weekend. The 15-year-old felt ill during the match against Fulham and, despite the timely intervention of the medical staff, passed away.
Confirming the death of young Amelia was Oxford United through an official statement: “It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of Amelia Aplin, 15-year-old Academy player. The young woman collapsed during a women’s Academy match against Fulham played at the club’s training center in Horspath. The thoughts and sincere condolences of all of us at’Oxford United go out to Amelia”s family, friends, teammates and coaches.
“We would like to express our appreciation for the efforts of the medical staff of Oxford United and Fulham Football Club, as well as the emergency services. The club will offer support to Amelia’s family, players, coaches and staff affected by this tragic event” the club wrote. Prior to the match between Oxford United and Blackburn Rovers, flowers were also laid outside the stadium and Blackburn Rovers captain Todd Cantwell brought flowers on behalf of the visiting team. The Oxford club thanked everyone at Blackburn, from the players to the staff and fans, and also thanked the match officials for joining us in remembering Amelia.
The Oxford club also thanked the officials for joining us in remembering Amelia.
In the fifteenth minute of the Championship match, the stadium once again paused for a minute of applause dedicated to Amelia and the referee, David Webb, stopped play to allow both teams to join in the applause. A truly emotional moment.
The Oxford coach, Matt Bloomfield, had this to say after the game: “Tonight we dedicated the evening to Amelia, who will live forever in our hearts. We wanted to make sure we paid the utmost tribute to such a devastating loss to our family”.
