The Australian sporting community was rocked to its core yesterday, after waking to news of beloved Adelaide Crows coach Phil Walsh‘s murder.
While the Crows’ game against the Geelong Cats, previously scheduled for Sunday afternoon has been cancelled, this afternoon’s game between the Richmond Tigers and the Greater Western Sydney Giants at the MCG—recently ending on a nine-point victory for Richmond—went ahead. It wasn’t, however without a moving tribute to the late Phil Walsh.
A minute of silence for Walsh was held during the game, followed by a huddle of players and coaches on the field – a moving and silent tribute that spoke volumes on the loss of one of AFL’s greats.
Nick Kyrgios climbing on a railing to watch Hewitt and Kokkinakis in the doubles. pic.twitter.com/kJTPvVvTqj
— Jonathan Liew (@jonathanliew) July 2, 2015
This morning, Phil Walsh’s 26-year-old son Cy Walsh was reportedly transferred to a secure mental health facility in Adelaide, James Nash House. Phil Walsh’s wife Meredith has reportedly been discharged from Flinders Medical Centre after being treated for stab wounds yesterday.
A cab driver who may have seen a “man covered in blood” in the early hours of Friday morning is reportedly being sought by police to aid with their investigation.
While media speculation has stirred over the involvement of the drug ice in Walsh’s death, the ABC reports police are downplaying the speculation in conjunction with Walsh’s alleged stabbing murder.
Fans mourning the loss of Phil Walsh continue their #WeFlyAsOne and #ScarvesOutForWalshy campaign today, showing their support over the tragic news.
Heartbroken fans declare #weflyasone with scarves and guernseys tribute. #ScarvesOutForWalshy #RIPPhilWalsh #9News pic.twitter.com/NnJzdJMhcK
— Nine News Adelaide (@9NewsAdel) July 3, 2015
Meanwhile, the Adelaide Crows’ headquarters has become a makeshift memorial for Walsh, as flowers, guernseys and scarves have appeared en masse, with fans paying their respects.
Adelaide Crows Chief Executive Andrew Fagan confirmed today that the club is looking to organise a formal memorial for Phil Walsh, in conjunction with his family.
Rest in peace, Walshy.
Images by Quinn Rooney and David Mariuz via Getty.
