LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a heartbreaking testimony at the coronial inquest into the death of Keith Titmuss, former Manly NRL coach Des Hasler expressed his sincerest apologies to the family and shared their pain.
Hasler, known for his tactical prowess on the rugby league field, revealed his sorrow for the loss of the "beautiful boy" during a grueling training session in 2020.
Despite the evidence presented, including the alarming rise in Titmuss's temperature and heart rate, the severity of his condition went unrecognized, resulting tragically in his untimely passing.
The rugby league community mourned the loss of a young talent, universally admired and respected for his abilities.
As the inquest progressed, it was revealed that an underlying heart condition had been discovered during the autopsy, yet it was not the definitive cause of his unfortunate demise.
The rugby league fraternity was left grappling with the harsh reality that sometimes even the most dedicated coaching staff and medical practitioners can miss critical signs, with devastating consequences.
Des Hasler's heartfelt words exemplify the deep anguish felt by all who loved Keith Titmuss and remind us that even in the face of tragedy, the bonds formed on the rugby league field run deep.