'We lost a brother': Rugby league rocked by devastating tragedy

Anthony Mundine has posted a heartbreaking message to social media after the death of young Bulldogs player Ziggie Vincent.

Widely regarded as a future star, Vincent was found dead over the weekend.

A 19-year-old forward from Griffith in country NSW, Vincent joined the Bulldogs this year and played in their Jersey Flegg side.

According to Wide World of Sports, Vincent had been staying at Mundine’s house and was close friends with Mundine’s son CJ, who recently signed with South Sydney.

“It’s a very sad day, very sad,” Mundine said in a video posted to Instagram.

“I’m a bit emotional here. We lost a brother, young Ziggie Vincent. It’s very hard to take for myself but I can’t imagine (what) his family and close friends, brothers and siblings (are going through).”

Mundine said he had been sent a video package of Vincent playing footy in the country and requested that he be sent up to Sydney.

“He was a bit unfit but he scored an individual try that I ain’t seen (before). He could run like he was a centre,” Mundine said.

Mundine implored anyone going through a difficult time to seek help.

“I let Zig know I was always there for him … but a lot of these brothers feel like they’re a burden. But they’re actually not. They’re just shy and don’t want to bring their problems on anyone else,” Mundine said.

“To anyone that has any problems with mental health or are not in a good place. Please speak up to somebody you trust, someone that sheds a good light in your life. That’s the most important thing. Even hit me up if you have to …

“Hearing this news really affected me. I haven’t left bed all day.”

If you or someone you know needs help:

Lifeline on 13 11 14

Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36

Headspace on 1800 650 890