The rugby league world is united in grief following the sudden and tragic passing of rising star Noah Johannssen, who died at the age of just 22. Johannssen, a talented player for both the North Sydney Bears and Western Suburbs Magpies, has left a profound void in the sport and among those who knew him.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Noah Johannssen had been making significant strides in his rugby league career, most recently joining the North Sydney Bears' NSW Cup team five months ago. The NSW Cup is one level below the prestigious National Rugby League (NRL), marking him as a player with considerable potential. Prior to this, he was part of the Western Suburbs Magpies side, where he played nine games in 2025 before transitioning to the Bears for the 2026 season.
Heartfelt Tributes from Family and Clubs
In an emotional social media post, his brother Tim Johannssen expressed deep sorrow and love, writing, 'My f***en brother, my forever love, I'll always be attached to you bro and I'll always be so glad for your existence and what you did for me bro, the man you made me be and everything I have today is because you were there for me.' He added, 'So f***en broken but I know I'll see you again on the other side and you'll always be with me in spirit, till next time my little buddy.'
The North Sydney Bears released a club statement hailing Johannssen as a 'man of great character'. It read, 'Noah had been with our NSW Cup team for just five months but quickly made a lasting impression through his vibrant nature, dedication and the respect he showed to everyone around him. His loss is felt deeply across our playing group, staff, and wider Bears community.' CEO Gareth Holmes echoed these sentiments, stating, 'Noah was a young man of great character. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.'
Western Suburbs Magpies also paid tribute, posting on social media, '@westernsuburbsmagpies is saddened to learn of the passing of our former @knockoneffectcup player Noah Johannssen aged 22. Noah played 9 games for the Magpies in 2025. He moved across to @northsydneybearsofficial for season 2026. Our thoughts are with the Johannssen Family at this time including his RL [rugby league] brother Tim.'
Community Support and Remembrance
A GoFundMe page set up by a family friend named Otis has raised over $30,000 to support the Johannssen family during this difficult time. Otis shared heartfelt words, describing Noah as 'an amazing brother, son, uncle, and friend, an incredible football player, and someone who truly lit up every room he walked into'. He continued, 'He was known for his kindness, his energy, and the way he could make anyone feel welcome. He was deeply loved by his family and everyone who knew him, and his presence will be missed more than words can describe.'
The sudden loss has resonated deeply within the rugby league community and beyond, highlighting the impact Johannssen had in his short life. For those in need of support, resources such as Lifeline on 131 114 and Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 are available.
