Sheffield United Women’s player Maddy Cusack has died at the age of 27.
Cusack had played for the Blades since 2019, making over 100 appearances for the club. She also worked for United as a marketing executive.
“This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane,” Stephen Bettis, United’s chief executive officer, said. “Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
“Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family — she will be sadly missed. Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
The club added in a statement: “Discussions over suitable tributes and celebrating Maddy’s life will continue privately. The Club and Maddy’s family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time.”
Cusack was set to start her sixth season with Sheffield United when the 2023/24 campaign kicked off. She was the first player to reach 100 appearances for the club, where she had worked since moving over from the Sheffield United Community Foundation in 2021.
Baroness Sue Campbell, FA director of women’s football, said: “We are all devastated to learn about the passing of Maddy Cusack. On behalf of the FA, the Lionesses, the Women’s Super League and the Women’s Championship, our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Maddy’s family, friends, team-mates and everyone at Sheffield United.
“Maddy also represented England at age-group level and we will pay tribute to her at an appropriate point. We are in contact with the club and will continue to offer them our full support during this incredibly sad time.”
Cusack’s former club, Birmingham City, wrote: “The Club are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Maddy Cusack. All of our thoughts are with Maddy’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
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