Finley Bone Death and Obituary – Queensland, Australia, is in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of 21-year-old soccer player and youth coach, Finley Bone, 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, teammates, and the wider community in shock.
According to reports, Bone was practicing goal-kicking with her partner when the devastating accident happened. Emergency services were immediately called to the scene, and bystanders courageously attempted to perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) to save her life before paramedics arrived. 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, spoke to the media in profound grief, stating that her daughter’s life was “taken away in a minute,” and expressing the family’s shock at the sudden loss.
A beloved figure in the Noosa Lions Football Club, Bone played for the FQPL3 women’s team and was widely respected both on and off the field. Beyond her athletic talent, she dedicated much of her time to coaching, guiding the under-12 and under-13 girls’ teams with enthusiasm and care. Her coaching inspired young athletes, many of whom looked up to her as a role model.
The impact of Bone’s passing has resonated deeply throughout the local football community. Tributes have poured in from friends, teammates, and clubs across Queensland, highlighting her skill, dedication, and compassionate nature. Social media posts described her as a “beautiful, kind and caring young woman” whose presence touched everyone she met.
In response to the incident, all football activities at the Cooroora United Football Club, where the tragedy occurred, were temporarily suspended. The suspension allows players, staff, and community members to grieve and access counseling and support services. Meanwhile, Queensland Police have confirmed that they are preparing a report for the coroner to formally document the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Lightning-related deaths during outdoor sports are rare but underscore the risks associated with sudden storms and severe weather. Authorities continue to remind sporting clubs and participants to follow safety protocols during adverse weather conditions to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future.
Finley Bone leaves behind a legacy of athletic talent, leadership, and compassion. Her contributions to Queensland soccer, particularly in mentoring young female players, will be remembered for years to come. Family, friends, and teammates continue to mourn a life full of promise, taken far too soon.