Daniel Willis, a promising Tavistock footballer who moved to Australia to start a new life, took his own life in 2024 — now his family are raising funds to help men talk about mental health
A beloved 25-year-old who relocated from Devon to begin afresh in Western Australia took his own life, an inquest has heard.
Daniel Willis was born in Plymouth but raised in Tavistock. He died near Perth in July 2024, but an inquest into his death has only just taken place in Exeter.
Tributes poured in for Daniel following the tragedy. He was a talented footballer who represented Tavistock Community Football Club and secured trials with Plymouth Argyle youth academy. A charity football match is being organised to generate funds for a local mental health charity.
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Daniel emigrated to Australia in 2022 and was employed as an engineer. An investigation conducted by Australian authorities stated he was reported missing by friends and his body was discovered by a park ranger in woodland on the city’s outskirts, reports Plymouth Live.
The inquest heard that three days prior to his death Daniel had been given medication for anxiety and depression. They were detected at therapeutic levels in his system, the coroner confirmed. UK medical records revealed no previous history of mental health conditions. The coroner recorded a conclusion of suicide.
A charity football match in Daniel’s honour, arranged by his brother, generated £2,000 for Mind. The objective was to promote conversations about mental health.
The DW Cup returns on Saturday, May 16, following a successful match last year. It is in aid of Man Down UK.
Daniel’s brother, Carl Willis, said: “This is to raise money for a charity that helped me after Dan took his own life in July 2024. We want to spread awareness to all men that it’s ok to talk. Kick off is at 2pm at Tavistock Crowndale pitch.
“Please donate to support what is a brilliant charity and we hope to see you on Saturday 16th May.”
Further details about the match are available here.
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
