The grassroots rugby league community is grieving the death of North Ipswich Tigers fullback Jesse Zampech, who passed away at just 27 years old following a tragic accident that left him fighting for his life in intensive care.
Zampech suffered serious injuries in the accident on June 20 and spent several days in the hospital with significant swelling to his brain. After days of holding onto hope, his family was told to prepare for the heartbreaking reality of saying goodbye.
Queensland Police confirmed they are preparing a report for the coroner following the non-suspicious death of the 27-year-old man in Ipswich on June 26.
Jesse leaves behind his fiancée, Teigan Wells, and their two young children, Zion and Indy.
A fundraising campaign launched to support the young family has already raised nearly $100,000, with hundreds of donors contributing to help cover everyday living expenses, funeral costs, and long-term financial stability for Teigan and the kids.
A Devoted Father and Lifelong Tiger
Family members described Jesse as an incredible father who was completely devoted to his partner and children, calling them his entire world and his greatest source of pride and purpose.
The tribute shared on the fundraising page painted a picture of a man with a heart of gold and an infectious laugh, someone who brought light into every room he entered and would do anything for the people he loved.
Jesse’s connection to rugby league ran deep. He joined Norths Tigers as a six-year-old and stayed loyal to the club for the rest of his life, with teammates and the broader community becoming like a second family to him.
North Ipswich Tigers honored him in a statement, saying he embodied everything the club stands for through his commitment, loyalty, and passion, both on the field wearing his familiar number 1 jersey and off it among teammates and supporters.
The club ended its tribute with the words, once a Tiger, always a Tiger.
Tributes Pour In From Across the Game
Jesse’s younger brother Brad shared an emotional message online, calling him his best friend and role model and thanking him for always being there.
Their father, Matt Zampech, also expressed gratitude to the community for the outpouring of support, describing Jesse as the rock and lifeblood of the family who always made sure everyone around him felt good about themselves first.
The wider rugby league community has rallied behind the family. North Ipswich Tigers postponed their senior fixture out of respect, and minutes of silence were observed across the Ipswich Rugby League competition.
Before junior matches kicked off, players, coaches, referees, and families gathered to honor Jesse’s memory. In a touching gesture, the Springfield Panthers Under 15s presented North Ipswich with a number 1 jersey as a tribute to the popular fullback.
Former school teammate and current Cronulla Sharks star Ronaldo Mulitalo also paid his respects on social media, remembering Jesse as a great teammate and an even better person, writing that he hoped his friend would rest in love.
As the rugby league world continues to process the loss, Jesse’s family and friends are leaning on the memories of a man who gave everything to those around him, on the field and off it, right up until the very end.
If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact Lifeline at 131 114 or Beyond Blue at 1300 224 636.
