Sports star, 37, dies suddenly as 'devastated' wife shares heartbreaking tribute

Heartfelt tributes are pouring in following the sudden death of husband and father-of-two Daniel Stewart, who played as a key forward in the AFL for Port Adelaide

RENMARK, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 03: Daniel Stewart of the Power looks on after the round two AFL NAB Cup match between the Port Adelaide Power and the Melbourne Demons at Renmark Oval on March 3, 2013 in Renmark, Australia. (Photo by Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

Daniel Stewart has passed away aged 37(Image: Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

Former Aussie Rules star Daniel Stewart has died suddenly aged 37. In a heartbreaking tribute, wife Laura said that she and her two children had been left 'devastated' by his loss.

Stewart represented Port Adelaide in the AFL between 2010 and 2013. Stewart played 36 matches and kicked 31 goals for the Power.

The key forward was selected with pick No.35 in the 2009 rookie draft. Stewart was signed from North Adelaide, having come through at Eastern Ranges and Queensland club Labrador.

On Instagram, Laura shared a photo of her, Daniel and their two children with a moving tribute. "Devastated to confirm the loss of our world," she wrote.

"A heart too big for this world. We love you so much daddy. Please respect our privacy as we navigate this incredible loss and prioritise our boys."

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ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 29: Daniel Stewart of the Power runs with the ball during the round 10 AFL match between Port Adelaide Power and the Richmond Tigers at AAMI Stadium on May 29, 2010 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

Daniel Stewart played for Port Adelaide(Image: Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 11: Daniel Stewart of the Power is tackled by Brandon Ellis of the Tigers during the round seven AFL match between Port Adelaide Power and the Richmond Tigers at AAMI Stadium on May 11, 2013 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

He kicked 31 goals for the Power(Image: Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)

Port Adelaide have confirmed that their players will wear black armbands in their first home game at the Adelaide Oval in 2027 to pay tribute to Stewart.

A statement from Power chief executive Matthew Richardson read: "On behalf of everyone at the Port Adelaide Football Club, I extend our deepest condolences to Daniel's family including his mum Donna, dad Byron, wife Laura, his two sons Bernie and Lando and his brother Leigh.

"We also extend our thoughts to his friends, including his close friend and former teammate Matt Thomas, and to all those at North Adelaide and Labrador who knew him.

"Daniel was part of the Port Adelaide football family, and he always will be. A sudden passing like this is devastating and our thoughts are with everyone who loved him, and with the teammates, coaches and staff who shared the journey with him here at Alberton.

"The club will provide support to those affected by Daniel’s passing, including his former teammates and the people who worked alongside him. We will honour Daniel by wearing black armbands in our first home game at Adelaide Oval in 2027."

One of Stewart's former team-mates at Port Adelaide, Kane Cornes, also paid tribute. "A true tragedy. A brilliant and caring teammate who always had a smile on his face," Cornes posted.

"I loved watching him and his beautiful family from afar. He built a thriving business and shared a special friendship with Matty Thomas. Heart goes out to his family."