Maddy Cusack: Tears as Sheffield United midfielder dies at the age of just 27

Sheffield United announced the passing of 27-year-old midfielder Maddy Cusack, who signed a new deal with the club in July before her death on September 20, 2023. 

Cusack joined Sheffield United from Leicester City after also representing Birmingham City and Aston Villa. At the time of her death, the midfielder also served Sheffield United as a marketing executive for the club, which released a statement following her demise expressing their deep sadness. 

Sheffield United’s statement read, “Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.

“Maddy, a women's team player since 2019 and marketing executive for the Football Club, passed away on Wednesday.

“A respected player, Maddy, 27, last season reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Sheffield United Women. Additionally, she was a valued colleague in the offices at Bramall Lane, moving over from the Sheffield United Community Foundation to the Club in 2021 to help market all areas of the Blades.”

The Blades’ CEO Stephen Bettis, also spoke about the midfielder, saying "This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane. Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with. 

“Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family - she will be sadly missed. Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the Club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy's family, friends and colleagues."

Sheffield also noted that “Discussions over suitable tributes and celebrating Maddy's life will continue privately. The Club and Maddy's family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time.”

Cusack also received tributes from former club Birmingham City, England’s FA, and Sheffield United’s main rivals Sheffield Wednesday.