'Completely shattered our world': Parents mourn 13-year-old sports-mad son

A mum whose sport-loving Kiwi boy died suddenly says there are “no words to describe the pain” of losing her son at just 13 years old. 

Treyvon Te Tahi Bradshaw, who died on September 26 on the Gold Coast, has been remembered as a kind-hearted boy who loved sport and made friends wherever he went. 

A funeral notice said he was a descendant of Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara. Although born in Australia, his mother told the Herald he was proud of his Māori and Samoan heritage. 

His death has rocked the wider Gold Coast community reeling from the loss of two young rugby league players who died within days of each other. 

Treyvon and Kaiyah Kennedy, 12, had played rugby at the Coomera Cutters Rugby League Club. Treyvon was a current player, while Kaiyah had previously been involved with the club. 

Sarah Bradshaw and her son Treyvon Bradshaw. Photo / Sarah Bradshaw 

Treyvon’s mother, Sarah Bradshaw, told the Herald her son’s loss would be felt forever. 

“There are no words to describe the pain of losing our son at just 13 years old,” Bradshaw said. 

“We would give anything for one more hug, one more conversation, one more laugh or simply one more moment with him.” 

Treyvon's mother Sarah said he was proud of his whakapapa. Photo / Sarah Bradshaw 

“Treyvon was such a kind, loving and cheeky boy with the most beautiful heart. He had a way of making friends everywhere he went, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing him knew how special he was,” Bradshaw said. 

“He absolutely loved his footy and sports, but he also loved being outdoors, playing with other kids and riding around on his scooter. He was always happiest when he was outside, active and surrounded by people. 

“Treyvon also loved singing. Whether he was in the car or singing away in the shower, there was always music around him. 

“Those little everyday moments, hearing his voice, his cheeky laugh and seeing his smile, are now memories we will hold onto forever.” 

She said he brought love, laughter and life into their world and was deeply loved by his family, friends, teammates and many others in the community. 

Trevyon's mother Sarah said there were no words to describe the pain of losing a son. Photo / Sarah Bradshaw 

Bradshaw’s workmate set up a GoFundMe account to support the family as they grieve. 

Bradshaw and Treyvon’s father Jade Fisher left a comment on the fundraiser thanking the community for the support, which gave their son “the beautiful farewell he deserved”. 

They said the support would allow them ”to grieve without having to rush back to normal life when nothing about our lives feels normal anymore". 

Trevyon's mother Sarah said he was happiest when he was outside, active and surrounded by people. Photo / Sarah Bradshaw 

A rugby league club spokesperson said it was heartbreaking to lose two beautiful young boys from the community. 

“We can’t believe we’re sharing news like this, it’s unbelievable.” 

The club urged the community to look after one another. 

“If you’re struggling, you are never alone. Speak to someone you trust, reach out, and remember that you are loved, valued and you matter.” 

The deaths are reported as not being linked. 

Tributes have flowed for both boys, with community fundraising campaigns drawing widespread support as their families grapple with loss. 

A GoFundMe for Kaiyah’s family described the 12-year-old as a loving brother and a bright light in the lives of those around him. 

“He was a proud Aboriginal boy who deeply loved learning and being immersed in his culture,” read the fundraiser. 

“He was also an absolute ball of energy and fun. While he certainly liked to test the rules and everyone’s patience, he did it with a charm that meant you wouldn’t have him any other way. 

“There was never a dull moment with Kaiyah, and his absence will forever leave an echoing void.” 

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