Hammers players and fans were dealt a shocking blow today with the club announcing that promising young forward Dylan Tombides has passed away at the young age of 20 after losing his battle with testicular cancer.
Born in Australia, Tombides joined West Ham at the age of 15. During the 2010/2011 season, he played in 12 Barclays Reserve League games for West Ham, scoring three goals – two of them coming against Arsenal. He was named Academy Player of the year.
Dylan impressed in the development squad and made his first team debut in a September 2012 Capital One Cup game against Wigan Athletic. The debut was especially impressive given that it came just 15 months after he had been diagnosed with cancer.
As well as playing for West Ham, he had also played for the Australian U17s. Off the pitch, Dylan was an advocate for raising cancer awareness. His teammates have paid tribute to him online with former strike partner Elliot Lee describing him as “An inspiration to us all! And one of the nicest/funniest person (sic) I will ever meet!”
It is tragic to think what a player he might have become had his life not been cut short.
It is certain that the players will head into Saturday’s game with a heavy heart knowing that one of our bravest players is no longer with us—and it is important that the fans and the club pull together to honour and celebrate his life at the Crystal Palace game on Saturday.
The club has stated that the players will wear black armbands, and that a minute’s silence will precede Saturday’s match against Crystal Palace. There have also been some suggestions on twitter to continue the applause in the 38th minute, as Tombides had the number 38 shirt at the time of his passing.
Whatever the outcome of tomorrow’s match, the most important thing is to respect the memory of one of our own, and let his family know that we are with them in grief.
Rest in peace, Dylan.
Tombides is survived by his mum Tracyee, father Jim, and brother Taylor. His family were at his side when he passed away, according to whufc.com
RIP Dylan, a sad day for the club. Such a brave young man with such a bright future ahead of him. My thoughts are with is family and friends as well as his team mates. Lets secure our season tomorrow with a win for Dylan. COYI
Here here, RIP Dylan
I haven’t experienced emotion like this since we lost our very own Bobby Moore
Sadly , I never had the privilege to meet this young man of whom I had heard so much and yet here I sit so very very moved by this tragic news
God Bless