The sudden death of Maddy Cusack at the young age of 27 has put Sheffield United’s fans in deep sorrow.
Maddy, poised to embark on her sixth season with the club, had etched her name into the annals of Sheffield’s football history as the first player to amass a staggering 100 appearances for the team. It was on a melancholic Thursday that Sheffield’s CEO, Stephen Bettis, somberly declared, “This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane.”
Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
— Sheffield United Women (@sufc_women) September 21, 2023
The Club and Maddy’s family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/49iTkBGgOA
Within Sheffield United’s broad roster, Maddy Cusack held a special and cherished position and won the affection of everyone who had the good fortune to come into contact with her.
In addition to being a testimonial to her abilities, her character and unfailing professionalism served as a mirror of her family’s pride. Those who knew her will feel the vacuum left by her absence keenly, and her memory will linger like a moving echo.
The somber yet resolute words of the club resonate: “Discussions concerning fitting tributes and the celebration of Maddy’s vibrant life will unfold behind closed doors. The club, in conjunction with Maddy’s family, kindly seeks a moment of solitude and will refrain from further commentary during this poignant period.”
Baroness Sue Campbell, the Football Association’s director of women’s football, offered her condolences: “We are all left devastated in the wake of Maddy Cusack’s untimely departure. Speaking on behalf of the FA, the Lionesses, the Women’s Super League, and the Women’s Championship, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are extended to Maddy’s family, her friends, her teammates, and the entire Sheffield United community.”
Maddy Cusack’s connection to the beautiful game extended beyond her club, as she had also donned the Three Lions jersey in her journey, representing England at age-group levels. A heartfelt tribute to her is on the horizon, as a touching commemoration is in the works. The FA remains in close contact with the club, vowing unwavering support in this profoundly sorrowful period.
In a display of unity and solidarity, Cusack’s former club, Birmingham City, too, pays homage to her memory, saying, “The club is deeply saddened by the loss of our former player, Maddy Cusack. In these incredibly trying times, our thoughts are wholly with Maddy’s family and friends.”