THE local rugby league community is in mourning again after the death of a Mudgeeraba Redbacks star.

Gold Coast born and bred footy player Luke Lennox, 38, died at the weekend much to the shock of his close friends and family, who described him as “the funniest bloke you’ve ever met” and “the last person you’d think would do this”.

A former Merrimac State High School student and electrician, Mr Lennox fell in love with rugby league at an early age and spent the past 10 years playing for the Redbacks.

The club met on Monday to pay respects to their mate at the home ground where they had made so many memories with the talented winger and fullback.

media_camera Luke Lennox.

One of his best friends and teammates, Jamie Timms, said Mr Lennox never reached out for help and the team was feeling like it had failed him.

“That’s what’s really hard for the boys,” he said.

“I’ve been playing with him for a long time, about seven years, and I honestly had no idea anything was wrong.

“He was so happy. He was the bloke who always put a smile on your dial.

“I’ve never seen the bloke angry.

“The whole time I knew him he was always laughing and joking.

“Our world and footy will never be the same.”

media_camera Crystal Carrasco and Luke Lennox.

Mr Timms said despite his obsession with league, there’s not much he loved more than his girlfriend of six years, Crystal Carrasco, who Mr Lennox had described as “the one”.

Ms Carrasco found her partner’s body on Sunday in their Surfers Paradise apartment.

“I think the next thing for him is he wanted to marry her,” Mr Timms said.

“He was crazy about her.

“We’re all going to be there for her because this has been harder for her than anyone.”

It is understood a funeral service will be held some time next week.

Redbacks vice-president Neil Williams said Luke had been instrumental in the club’s two grand final wins, most recently in 2014.

“He will always be remembered for his infectious smile and also his coolness on and off the footy field and on the dance floor,” he said.

media_camera Luke Lennox.

Four Gold Coast grassroots-level league players died last year alone.

A Bulletin special report in August revealed local clubs were still waiting on a visit from NRL welfare officers after the suicide deaths of six of their players since 2012.

On the back of the coverage, the NRL promised to visit three local clubs rocked by suicides of their players as part of their State of Mind campaign, which was given $1 million by the State Government.

It is understood this will be happening when the season kicks off next year.

The number of young players taking their own life reflects the issues facing Australia’s wider society, where suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 15-44.

Their high profile is drawing attention to the welfare of young players, especially those who haven’t yet made it to elite level.

If you or anyone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 131114.