Young Footballer's Life Cut Short After 2016 Injury

Former Rochdale academy player Ellis Robinson has died at the age of 26 due to complications from a devastating spinal injury. The life-altering injury occurred in 2016 when Robinson was just 17, leaving him paralysed below the chest after another player fell on him during a five-a-side game. His condition had reportedly worsened significantly in recent years.

Robinson, who was once considered a promising talent, was supported by his family, who organized numerous fundraising initiatives under the Team Ellis banner. These efforts included benefit nights, charity matches, and sponsored bike-a-thons to aid in his care and recovery. Tributes have poured in, remembering him for bringing happiness and laughter.

A planned white-collar boxing match was set to be staged in his honor, with proceeds assisting memorial arrangements. Robinson's resilience was widely noted, with many recalling his brave fight against the severe injuries that dramatically altered his life's trajectory.