THE Griffith community is mourning the loss of one of their own, after 19-year-old Ziggie Vincent took his own life over the weekend.
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The bright young NRL talent had been living in Sydney after signing with the Canterbury Bulldogs, attaining a prominent role in the club's Jersey Flegg squad.
Both talented and popular, Ziggie Vincent left a legacy in the Riverina, achieving the Rising Star award in Group 20 and leaving an everlasting impression along the way.
Former boxing world champion and footballer, Anthony Mundine, had been hosting Ziggie at his home in South Sydney alongside his son CJ Mundine.
"It's a very sad day, very sad," Mundine said.
"I'm a bit emotional here, we lost a brother, young Ziggie Vincent.
"It's very hard to take for myself but I can't imagine (what) his family and close friends, brothers and siblings (are going through)."
A truly shattered Anthony Mundine posted an emotional video to Instagram in which he paid tribute to the youngster with a broken heart.
"I let Zig know I was always there for him, but a lot of these brothers feel like they're a burden, but they're actually not," Mundine explained.
"They're just shy and don't want to bring their problems on anyone else.
"To anyone that has any problems with mental health or are not in a good place, please speak up to somebody you trust.
"Hearing this news has really affected me, I haven't left bed all day."
Ziggie Vincent first attracted NRL interest after Mundine was sent a video package of him playing football in Group 20.
The highly-touted forward hit hard and could run like a centre, scoring individual tries like that of the top one percent.
Ziggie Vincent will be lovingly remembered by family, friends and the entire MIA community for his achievements both on and off the sporting field.
If you need help, please reach out and talk to someone:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Griffith Suicide Prevention and Support Group: 1300 133 911
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