Mount Waverley, Melbourne — Eastern Football Netball League Mourns the Tragic Loss of Promising Netball Star Tahlia Briggs
Mount Waverley, Melbourne — The tight-knit sporting community of Melbourne’s eastern suburbs is reeling following the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of Tahlia Briggs, a beloved netballer and rising star in the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL). Tahlia, whose vibrant presence lit up courts across the region, tragically passed away over the weekend, leaving her teammates, coaches, and the broader netball fraternity devastated.
At just 20 years old, Tahlia Briggs was regarded as one of the EFNL’s most promising young talents. A key player for the Mount Waverley netball team, she was known not only for her athleticism and skill but also for her infectious energy, leadership, and compassion—qualities that made her a cherished teammate and a fierce competitor on the court.
The Eastern Football Netball League released a statement on Monday, expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to Tahlia’s family, friends, and teammates. “Tahlia was an exceptional young woman whose impact on and off the court will be remembered forever. She embodied the spirit of community sport, playing with passion, humility, and heart. Her loss is immeasurable, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Friends and coaches described Tahlia as a “spark” who could uplift those around her no matter the situation. “She had this energy about her—whether we were down by ten or up by twenty, she was cheering louder than anyone,” said her coach, Karen McIntyre. “More than a player, she was the heartbeat of our team.”
As news of Tahlia’s passing spread, tributes have poured in from across Victoria’s netball and football communities. Clubs have taken to social media to honour her memory, many remembering Tahlia not just for her athletic talents, but for her kindness, sportsmanship, and radiant smile.
“Tahlia had so much ahead of her,” said teammate Elise Hart. “She dreamed big, trained harder than anyone I’ve ever seen, and always put her team first. We’ve lost not only a gifted athlete but a truly beautiful soul.”
The circumstances surrounding her sudden death have not been publicly disclosed, and the community continues to rally around the Briggs family during this profoundly difficult time. Grief counselors and league support staff have been made available to EFNL players and staff, as many struggle to come to terms with such an unexpected loss.
A candlelight vigil is being planned at the Mount Waverley Netball Club, where friends, family, teammates, and community members will gather to honour Tahlia’s life. The club is also organizing a memorial match later in the season, where players from across the league will wear black armbands and observe a moment of silence in her memory.
Tahlia Briggs leaves behind a legacy far beyond her years. Her name will be remembered not only on team sheets and scoreboards but in the hearts of those whose lives she touched. She reminded everyone around her of what it means to play with love—for the game, for your teammates, and for your community.
May her spirit continue to inspire young netballers and athletes across Melbourne and beyond.
Rest in Peace, Tahlia Briggs. You were truly one of a kind.