Sheffield United Women Mourn Tragic Loss of Young Star Maddy Cusack

Maddy Cusack, a 27-year-old midfielder playing in England's second division of soccer, passed away on Wednesday, as confirmed by her team Sheffield United. In a press release, the club expressed their deep sorrow in reporting this unfortunate news.

Sheffield United did not disclose the cause of death but stated that they are currently engaged in discussions and planning on how to honor her life appropriately.

Stephen Bettis, the Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield United, expressed deep sorrow for the news. He emphasized that Maddy held a special role within various teams at Sheffield United and was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

"Maddy will be deeply missed, as her personality and professionalism made her an exceptional individual. The Club stands ready to provide all possible support to Maddy's family, friends, and colleagues as they come to terms with this heartbreaking news."

Soccer Football - Spain Women's Training - Oliva Nova Sports Center, Oliva, Spain - September 20, 2023

Spain's Alexia Putellas during training REUTERS/Pablo Morano

Pablo Morano/Reuters

Spanish football players express their concerns about ingrained discrimination before their first game after winning the Women's World Cup. According to the team, Cusack, who served in Sheffield United's marketing department, played over 100 matches for the club during a five-year period, becoming the first player to achieve this feat after the team joined the English Women's Championship.

In July, Cusack expressed her love for the club in an announcement video while signing a fresh one-year contract with the English team. Sue Campbell, the director of women's football at the English Football Associations (FA), expressed deep sadness upon hearing about Maddy Cusack's unfortunate demise.

The FA, Lionesses, Women's Super League, and Women's Championship express our heartfelt sympathies and thoughts to Maddy's family, friends, team-mates, and everyone at Sheffield United. Maddy had also proudly represented England at various age-group levels, and we will commemorate her at the right moment. We maintain close communication with the club and stand with them fully during this profoundly sorrowful period.

Birmingham City, a former team of Cusack, expressed their condolences on X, the social media platform previously referred to as Twitter.

"The Club is deeply saddened to hear about the untimely death of former player Maddy Cusack," the statement reads. "Our hearts go out to Maddy's family and friends during this incredibly challenging period."

More of Cusacks former teams also paid tribute on X, including Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest.

Sheffield United said in its statement that planning for a tribute to Cusack is ongoing.