Queensland Rugby League Community Mourns Death of Former Northern Pride Captain Ryan Ghietti

Ryan Ghietti death, Digi Mart USA News (Queensland, Australia): Queensland rugby league star and former Northern Pride captain Ryan Ghietti has died, aged 37. The former Italy international hails from Innisfail, Far North Queensland, and leaves behind his wife, Stacey, and their two children, Grace and James.

Ghietti was heavily involved with the Italian national team, making their World Cup squad in both 2013 and 2017. He kicked a crucial field goal that sealed Italy’s qualification for their first World Cup in 2013.

Ghietti played for Northern Pride, a regional club in Cairns that is part of the state’s premier competition, the Queensland Cup. He was a member of the premiership-winning team in 2014 and was appointed captain in 2016.

“With an incredible 165 appearances in the Pride jersey, Ryan holds the distinction of being the club’s most-capped player, a remarkable achievement that reflects his dedication, consistency and commitment to Northern Pride,” the club said in a statement.

“Beyond his achievements on the field, Ryan remained a familiar and much-loved presence at Northern Pride home games, regularly supporting the club from the stands.

“His absence will be deeply felt… he will forever hold a special place in the club’s history and the hearts of those who knew him.

“The Northern Pride Board, players, staff and wider club community extend their heartfelt condolences to Ryan’s young family, his friends, former teammates, colleagues and mates in the Queensland Fire Department, and everyone whose life he touched.”

Ghietti played his junior football for Innisfail Brothers before building a career as a versatile halfback, five-eighth and hooker. He represented Italy between 2011 and 2016, with Italy team manager Reno Santaguida paying tribute with a “heavy heart” after his death.

“Ryan will forever hold a special place in Italian rugby league history, kicking the unforgettable field goal that helped send Italy to its first-ever Rugby League World Cup in 2013,” Santaguida said.

A fundraising page has been set up for Ghietti’s young family, stating that the “sudden and unexpected loss of Ryan” has rocked the community, with the page nearing its goal of $80,000 raised.