The Australian sporting community has come together to mourn the tragic loss of 15-year-old Central Coast swimmer, Jade Frith, who was killed in a car accident earlier this week when travelling to practice.
“My heart is deeply saddened to hear the news about Jade Frith today” Olympic swimmer Thomas Fraser-Holmes wrote on Facebook. “My thought & prayers go out to you and your family. #novocastrian stay strong”.
Jade Frith was on her way to swimming practice when she was hit. Source: Facebook.
Frith, who was a member of the Novocastrian swimming club, was said to be walking to practice on Tuesday when she was struck by a Ford Laser travelling along Hillsborough Road in Warners Bay just before 5pm.
Sustaining substantial injuries at the scene, the teenager was rushed to John Hunter Hospital, where she died yesterday.
The 22-year-old driver of the vehicle was not injured.
Now, the swimming community are coming together, putting their #capsoutforjade as a mark of remembering the young woman's life.
"Truly devastating to hear of Jade Frith's passing. You obviously touched the hearts of those around you. Prayers are with the Frith's, Novo swim club and those that experienced your presence. Soar high angel. #capsoutforjade," wrote one user.
"You train together, you laugh together, you spend most of your days being one big family," wrote another. "The Novocastrian team past and present has always been one big family. I only had the pleasure of meeting this young bright and bubbly girl a handful of times when at home swimming at the pool I trained at. Thinking of all fellow novo's, friends and family, make sure you all look out for each other, reminisce, cry and hugs, heaven has gained a beautiful soul, and it's never goodbye just cya again some time in the future, tragic accident #capsoutforjade."
Other underage sporting teams have also showed their support, promising to wear armbands and honour a minute's silence before their weekend matches.
Police are investigating the incident and will prepare a report for the coroner.
All images via Facebook.