The community of Queensland, Australia, is in shock following the tragic death of Finley Bone, a 21-year-old soccer player and youth coach, who was struck by lightning during a practice session on Thursday, October 30, 2025. The incident occurred at the Cooroy Sporting Complex on the Sunshine Coast, leaving family, friends, and the local football community heartbroken.
What Happened:
Finley Bone’s life was tragically cut short after being struck by lightning during a soccer practice on October 30, 2025. The incident took place at the Cooroy Sporting Complex, where Bone was practicing goal-kicking with her partner. Emergency services quickly arrived on the scene, and bystanders bravely attempted to revive her with CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED). Despite their heroic efforts, Bone was transported to Nambour Hospital in critical condition but tragically passed away shortly after arrival.
Bone’s mother, Donna Markert, expressed her shock and grief in an emotional statement to the media, saying that her daughter’s life was “taken away in a minute.” The unexpected and sudden loss has left her family in profound sorrow, as they grapple with the tragedy.
Who Was Finley Bone?
Finley Bone was not only a talented soccer player but also a beloved coach, mentor, and role model for many young athletes. A key member of the Noosa Lions Football Club, Bone played for the FQPL3 women’s team, where her skill, determination, and leadership made her a standout player. Known for her work ethic and team spirit, she was admired by teammates and coaches alike for her dedication to the game and her infectious positivity.
In addition to playing, Finley devoted much of her time to coaching youth teams. She worked with the under-12 and under-13 girls’ teams, where her guidance and encouragement inspired many young players to pursue their own athletic dreams. Her passion for soccer, coupled with her compassion for others, made her a cherished figure in the Queensland soccer community.
Finley’s commitment to the game and her ability to mentor and empower young athletes have left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working with her. She was widely remembered as a beautiful, kind, and caring young woman whose presence touched everyone she met.
Career, Legacy, and Contributions
Finley Bone’s legacy in Queensland soccer will continue to inspire generations of players and coaches. Her athleticism, leadership, and coaching abilities left a lasting impression on both her teammates and the young athletes she mentored. Finley’s contributions to the Noosa Lions Football Club and the broader soccer community were invaluable, and her efforts in coaching young female players helped pave the way for future talent in the sport.
In addition to her athletic prowess, Finley was known for her character. Her dedication to her community and her role as a mentor made her a beloved figure both on and off the field. Her ability to connect with and inspire others, particularly young female athletes, will ensure that her memory lives on in the hearts of those she touched.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The passing of Finley Bone has deeply affected the local football community and beyond. Tributes from friends, teammates, and fellow coaches have poured in, with many describing Finley as a “beautiful, kind and caring young woman.” On social media, posts shared by friends and teammates have highlighted her remarkable spirit, with many expressing their heartbreak over the loss of someone who made such a positive impact on everyone around her.
“Finley was more than just a player and coach. She was a friend, a mentor, and someone who brought light to every room she entered. She’ll never be forgotten,” wrote one of her teammates on Facebook.
Hashtags such as #RIPFinleyBone and #ForeverInOurHearts have been widely shared as the community comes together to mourn the loss of this remarkable young woman.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
Following the tragic incident, the Cooroora United Football Club has temporarily suspended all football activities to allow players, staff, and community members to grieve and access counseling services. The suspension provides a time for reflection and support, as the community comes to terms with the loss of a young life full of promise.
Queensland Police have confirmed that they are preparing a report for the coroner to formally document the circumstances surrounding the lightning strike. Authorities continue to remind sporting clubs and participants about the importance of following safety protocols during adverse weather conditions to prevent such tragic accidents in the future.
Closing Line:
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Queensland Mourns Tragic Loss of Finley Bone: 21-Year-Old Soccer Player and Youth Coach Dies After Lightning Strike first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
