A promising young footballer who relocated from Devon to Australia to start a new life has died by suicide, an inquest has heard. Daniel Willis, 25, was born in Plymouth and raised in Tavistock. He moved to Western Australia in 2022 and worked as an engineer. His body was discovered by a park ranger in woodland on the outskirts of Perth in July 2024, after he was reported missing by friends.
Inquest Findings
The inquest, held in Exeter, heard that three days before his death, Daniel had been prescribed medication for anxiety and depression. The medication was found at therapeutic levels in his system. UK medical records showed no previous history of mental health conditions. The coroner recorded a conclusion of suicide.
Football Career and Tributes
Daniel was a talented footballer who represented Tavistock Community Football Club and secured trials with Plymouth Argyle youth academy. Following his death, tributes poured in from the community. A charity football match, the DW Cup, was organized by his brother Carl to raise funds for mental health charities.
Charity Match and Fundraising
The DW Cup returns on Saturday, May 16, at Tavistock Crowndale pitch, with kick-off at 2pm. Last year's match raised £2,000 for Mind. This year, proceeds will go to Man Down UK, a charity supporting men's mental health. Carl Willis said: "This is to raise money for a charity that helped me after Dan took his own life in July 2024. We want to spread awareness to all men that it's ok to talk."
Support for Mental Health
For emotional support, the Samaritans 24-hour helpline is available at 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org. The family hopes the event will encourage open conversations about mental health and prevent further tragedies.
