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Tributes for young Aussie Rules star Nicholas-Roma ‘Tippa’ Tipungwuti

News Corp AustraliaNCA NewsWire
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Camera IconNot Supplied Credit: Supplied

A young Aussie rules talent and cousin of AFL legend Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has been remembered for his infectious smile following his death.

Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti, 19, otherwise known as “Tippa”, died from a sudden illness on May 14.

Tipungwuti was the cousin of retired Essendon Bombers star Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and was a rising football star for Queensland AFL team the Sandgate Hawks.

Tributes have flowed for young Sandgate Hawks AFL player Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti.
Camera IconTributes have flowed for young Sandgate Hawks AFL player Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti. Credit: Supplied

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In an emotional social media post, the team paid tribute to Tipungwuti for his carefree nature and the way he touched people’s hearts.

“Last week we lost a beautiful young man Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti (Tippa),” the Sandgate Hawks posted on Facebook on Friday.

“A lot of you won’t know him or remember him, but for the many who did he touched our hearts in a special way. His smile, laughter and love for everybody was profound.”

Team members were invited to sport a black armband or Indigenous colours in his memory for their upcoming game.

“Tippa had football talents that would amaze anybody, but his carefree nature only allowed us to see glimpses. He could have been anything but all he wanted to be was NICK,” the post read.

“Indigenous round is about you Nick. May you Rest In Peace.”

Assignment Freelance Picture A tribute for Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti on Facebook.
Camera IconThe tribute for Nicholas-Roma Tipungwuti on Facebook. Credit: News Corp Australia

Others from the football community also joined in the tributes.

“Such a beautiful smile, and soul. Very sad news- condolences to his family,” Kylie Anderson wrote.

“Omg that is so sad. He was always happy. Only the good die young,” added Lisa Wagner.

Anna Bradley said: “This is very sad to hear. I taught Nick in grade 5 and I will never forget that cheeky smile and infectious giggle.”

Originally published as Tributes for young Aussie Rules star Nicholas-Roma ‘Tippa’ Tipungwuti

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