Thomas Rankin, a midfielder for Redditch United Football Club, died by suicide on March 27, 2024, at the age of 26. He was found unresponsive at his family home, hours after he had been out with friends following a match. His death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and the football community.
Contents
A Talented and Popular Player
Thomas Rankin, also known as Tom, was a talented and popular player who had been with Redditch United for three seasons. He was the club’s former captain and had a fantastic game the day before his death. He was also a graduate of Loughborough University and worked as an engineer.
He was described by his family as “their world” and by his manager as “a special lad”. He received many tributes from his teammates, fans, and other clubs. He was also a fan of classic rock and loved to play the guitar.
A Struggle with Mental Health Issues
According to an inquest at Worcestershire Coroner’s Court, Thomas Rankin had been suffering from depression and anxiety for several years. He had been prescribed medication and had sought counselling, but he did not share his feelings with many people. He had also experienced some stressful events in his life, such as the loss of his dog, relationship problems, and frustrations with his job.
On the night of his death, he had been involved in an altercation at a nightclub with another man who was talking to his ex-girlfriend. He then went home and hanged himself in his bedroom. His family found him the next morning and called an ambulance, but he could not be revived.
The coroner ruled that he had intended to take his own life and recorded a verdict of suicide.
A Need for More Awareness and Support
Thomas Rankin’s death highlighted the need for more awareness and support for mental health issues, especially among young men. His family urged anyone who was struggling to seek help and not to suffer in silence. They also thanked everyone who had shown them kindness and compassion.
They said in a statement: “We hope that by sharing Tom’s story, we can help to break the stigma around mental health and encourage people to talk about their feelings and reach out for support. Tom was a wonderful son, brother, uncle, and friend, and we will always love and miss him.”
