Sheffield Giants lead tributes to popular young player with ‘bright future’ found dead at 16

British American football team Sheffield Giants has paid tribute to a youth player found dead at home at the age of 16.
By Claire Lewis
Published 27th Feb 2020, 13:23 BST
Updated 27th Feb 2020, 14:08 BST
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Louis Sleney died at his home on Oldfield Road, Stannington, on Thursday, February 13.

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The cause of death has not yet been ascertained, but it is not being treated as suspicious.

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Notre Dame High School, Ranmoor, SheffieldNotre Dame High School, Ranmoor, Sheffield
Notre Dame High School, Ranmoor, Sheffield
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South Yorkshire Police referred the death to the Coroner and an inquest was opened and adjourned for enquiries to be carried out.

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Louis, a pupil at Notre Dame High School, Ranmoor, played British American football in his spare time.

Notre Dame High School, Fulwood Road.Notre Dame High School, Fulwood Road.
Notre Dame High School, Fulwood Road.

His club, Sheffield Giants, paid tribute to him on Facebook.

The club’s post reads: “This week the Sheffield Giants family are mourning the death of Louis Sleney.

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“Louis played for our youth team during last season. He was well liked by all who knew him and had a bright future ahead.

“Our love and thoughts to his family, friends and teammates at this difficult time.”

Former coach Toby Chesters added: “In a small club, people impact on people in different ways.

“I coached Louis early in his football career as part of our junior Flag program.

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“He wasn’t great at catching but he was pretty quick and he was always enthusiastic about football.

“I grieve his loss.

“Please, talk to us. Football is extended family and we need to be here for one another.”

David Hewitt, of the British American football referees association, said: “So sorry to hear the dreadful news.

“The thoughts and prayers of myself and all the members of the British American football referees association go out to you all at this difficult time.”

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American football clubs up and down the country have sent their condolences following the Sheffield Giants tribute.

Among the Facebook messages is one from Ryan Cummings, who said: “Thoughts and prayers to the family of this bright young baller from all at the Leicester Falcons academy.”

A former teammate added: “Fly high, gonna miss u loads. It was great to play along side you and spend a season with you, meeting you was a great experience. Gonna miss your presence. Love you bro. ️️Rest in peace.”