Members of the Springfield Panthers community rallied behind a heartfelt fundraising effort over the weekend of 11 October, when player Dylan ran 100 kilometres in 24 hours to support the family of Katalayah, a young teammate who recently passed away.
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The run was both a test of endurance and a show of community spirit. As Dylan completed the kilometres, supporters, teammates, and club members followed his progress and publicly expressed their encouragement.
Katalayah had joined the Springfield Panthers Under-13 Pink team for her first season earlier this year. Fundraising messages described her enthusiasm and joy while playing, and club posts recall how warmly she was embraced by her teammates and coaches.
Her sudden passing has deeply affected the club. In the days that followed, messages of sympathy and support came from players, coaches and parents, sharing memories of her positivity and kindness.
To help her family during this difficult time, the Panthers community launched a GoFundMe campaign to ease some of the financial burden associated with funeral and related costs. The fundraiser describes Katalayah as a beloved Pink Panther who embraced every moment of her first season with courage and excitement. It has become a space where supporters have shared donations and messages of remembrance.
For Dylan, the 100-kilometre run was a way to contribute and help the family. His 24-hour challenge served as a tribute to Katalayah’s memory and a gesture of compassion for those closest to her. He was cheered by club members and friends who gathered to encourage him throughout the effort.
The Springfield Panthers Rugby League Club expressed pride in Dylan’s effort on social media, describing his run as a reflection of the unity that defines the club. The post also thanked everyone who has come together to support Katalayah’s family and reminded members to look after themselves and one another during this emotional time.
While fundraising continues, the story of Dylan’s run has been widely shared within the Panthers community. It shows how sport can bring people together through shared values and empathy.
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For many in Springfield Lakes, the focus was not only on how far one person could run but on how a community could stand together in support of one of its own.
Those wishing to help can visit the official GoFundMe page to contribute or share the campaign in support of Katalayah’s family.
Published 15-October-2025
