A 12-year-old girl from Sydney’s south west is being remembered as a “gentle spirit” after she is believed to have died by suicide earlier this month.
Alisha “Ali” Rush, who lived in the southwestern suburb of Sadleir, died on July 21.
The young girl was a prolific rugby player, representing the Southlakes Roosters league club’s Under 12 and 14s squad, and tributes have flowed from her heartbroken teammates.
A GoFundMe started for Ali’s funeral costs described the 12-year-old as “beautiful”, and had been struggling with mental health issues before her tragic death.
“Alisha unfortunately was battling mental health which her family was trying their hardest to help her,” the GoFundMe statement said.
Ali’s grandmother left a comment on funeral company Comforting Farewells’ Facebook post, saying she will “always be loved and cherished” by her family, and revealing the 12-year-old had also lost her father at an early age.
“You brought light to everyone you came in contact with,” the comment said.
“I know your dad is up there holding you keeping you safe now and helping you heal.
“Love you forever Ali, nan.”
Hunter MP Dan Rapacholi also honoured Ali on social media, posting a video of players from the West Maitland Junior Rugby League Football Club’s tribute to the avid rugby player by releasing balloons and honouring her #3 jersey.
“There are no words that can make sense of a loss like this,” Mr Repacholi said.
“A young life taken far too soon is something no family, teammates, coaches or community should ever have to face.”
In a statement, the Roosters revealed they will be paying tribute to their “beautiful teammate” Ali during the Under 12s game at the weekend, including wearing pink ribbons and a minutes’ silence before games.
“While Ali played with our Under 12WT team during the 2026 season, she was also very much a part of our Under 14WT family, spending the entire pre-season training alongside them before moving into the Under 12s to continue developing her skills as she began her rugby league journey.
“Over the past week, Ali’s Under 12WT teammates have done a beautiful job of remembering their friend. This weekend, our wider Roosters family will have the opportunity to stand beside them as we pay tribute to a much-loved member of our Club.”
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