The sudden death of a 26-year-old local sporting star has left his community reeling.
The north west Melbourne football and cricket clubs of Templestowe announced the sudden death of one of their young guns, Nick Mustafa, on Monday.
On June 1, Mr Mustafa helped his Templestowe Dockers to a hard-fought win, and just over a week later, he suddenly passed away.
Cricket club president Jodi Hannington remembered Mr Mustafa as a local legend and a “much loved” figure around the club.
“He was one of us, part of our family. He was a mentor, coach (and) friend,” Ms Hannington wrote in a post on Facebook.
Ms Hannington said Mr Mustafa was ‘one of us, part of our family’ and committed himself to mentoring and coaching younger players.
“The kindest and most loving, caring person you could meet and we were blessed to have you both play and be a part of our cricket and football family,’ she wrote.
“Your engaging smile and beautiful hugs will be forever missed, and your legacy will live on.
“Your tips, pointers and care for all of the youth will be a huge void.
“Thank you for the wonderful memories, and our heartfelt condolences go out to all the family”
Ms Hannginton said Mr Mustafa was “one of us” and would be sorely missed.