“Traumatic experience”: a football player suffers a heart attack during a fight outside the ball

The footballer is recovering in hospital after suffering a heart attack during an out-of-ball incident at a football match in northwestern Tasmania.

On Saturday around 15.50 Burnie Dockers player Toby Maxines had a cardiac arrest during the third quarter of the game against Penguin Two Blues at West Park Oval in Bern.

He was involved in an “out-of-town fight” being investigated by Tasmanian police.

Mr Maxins was quickly assisted by coaches, staff and three paramedics who were not working before ambulances arrived on the scene.

On Sunday night, he was conscious and stable at Launceston Hospital, but underwent an examination to determine his condition.

Burnie Dockers President Jamie Boag noted the efforts of coaches, staff and paramedics who helped Mr. Maxins save his life.

“The quick actions of the defendants definitely saved Toby’s life,” he said.

“Without the efforts of these people, Toby may not be with us today.”

The Northwest Football League match was halted as a result of an incident less than a month after Mr Maxins made his senior debut for the Dockers.

Mr Boag said the club would hold consultations on Tuesday for those affected by the incident.

“It was a traumatic experience for all participants and for those who witnessed it,” he said.

“The Tasmanian Sports Chaplaincy will visit our club on Tuesday night to offer advice and support to all players and officials.

“We invite all fans who are also affected to contact the club to participate in one of the sessions.”

The Penguin Football Club wished Mr. Maxins “all the best for a speedy recovery” in a message on social media.

On Tuesday, the club will also have an advisor for all players, support staff and spectators who wish to converse.

The circumstances of Mr. Maxins’ injuries are now under investigation by police, and Detective Inspector Steve Jones is appealing to the community for any assistance.

“We urge witnesses to speak and help investigators,” he said.

“The police are serious about any attack, and we need the help of the community to make sure the perpetrators are properly identified.”

Anyone with information should contact the police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.