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The Ashes LIVE from 12Former North Melbourne player, Phoenix Spicer passes away aged 23
SEN • January 3rd, 2026 9:41 pm
WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following article contains an image of deceased persons.
Former North Melbourne player Phoenix Spicer has passed away at the age of 23.
Spicer was drafted to North Melbourne in the 2021 AFL Draft with Pick #42 and would make his debut in the same year.
Across his three seasons with the club, he played 12 games at the AFL level, with half of those coming within the 2023 season.
Following his delisting from the Kangaroos at the end of the 2023 season, he would then join the Western Bulldogs VFL team, which he played for the last two years, managing to play 18 games.
He would be named as an emergency in their 2025 VFL Grand Final win.
In a statement published on Facebook on behalf of Phoenix's partner, Ky-ya, her sister Dharna Nicholson-Bux said that they were devastated by the loss.
"On behalf of my sister Ky-ya and our family, we are devastated to share that last night we tragically lost our brother Phoenix Spicer. A beautiful, loyal and strong Nunggubuyu man."
"Phoenix will forever be our beloved brother, uncle, son, a partner to Ky-ya and a second dad to Jordy."
"Our hearts are broken with your sudden loss, you are watching over us in the Dreaming now my brother we will miss you!"
"Forever 23 🖤"
North Melbourne has also subsequently released a statement with Club President Dr Sonja Hood passing condolences to his family.
"Phoenix was only at the club for a short time, but he was a popular and well-liked member of the playing group," she said.
"On behalf of the club, I would like pass on my condolences to Phoenix’s family and friends at this extremely sad time."
The Western Bulldogs have also expressed their condolences.
"The Club extends its deepest condolences to Spicer’s friends, family and loved ones at this difficult time and ask that their privacy be respected."
