The Gold Coast Titans extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of former Titans NYC player Zae Wallace, who passed away over the weekend.

Wallace was part of the Titans under-20s NYC side in 2017, playing 15 games for the club. The hooker also played for the Burleigh Bears in the Intrust Super Cup. Wallace moved back to his homeland of New Zealand at the end of 2018.

The 20-year-old unfortunately passed away on the weekend after being in an induced coma since April, due to an infection after catching the flu.

Wallace was part of the NYC side that featured now NRL players AJ Brimson, Moeaki Fotuaika and Phillip Sami.

Executive Chairman Dennis Watt said there were a number of players and staff carrying heavy hearts over the weekend.

“Zae may not have been at the club in recent times but he left with many friends that are still here,” he said.

“Those who I’ve spoken to said he was a young kid who was full of life and truly loved the game of rugby league.

“It is devastating to have heard of his passing, and our thoughts are with all of his friends and family both here and in New Zealand.”

The club will pay its respects to Wallace at the next home game against the New Zealand Warriors at Cbus Super Stadium on Friday, 14 June.