EXCLUSIVE: Maddy Cusack's family tell us her death has left them 'heartbroken'
The 27-year-old former Sheffield United women's Vice-Captain died in 2023
The family of former Sheffield United women's footballer - Maddy Cusack - say they've been 'torn apart' by her death.
The 27-year-old died last September at her parents' home in Horsley - with Derbyshire Police not treating her death as suspicious.
Maddy's family have been speaking exclusively to us ahead of a charity event in her memory this weekend.
Tomorrow - Maddy's family & friends are walking around 40 miles - from Pride Park in Derby to Bramall Lane in Sheffield.
They're hoping to raise money for the Maddy Cusack Foundation - which's been set up to continue her legacy in the women's game.
Maddy's mum Deborah tells me her daughter loved nothing more than playing football:
"She first kicked a ball when she was 18 months old on Mablethorpe beach - she was very dedicated.
"Maddy put football above everything really, and she was a true professional in terms of her dedication to the sport.
"We've had the heart of the family ripped out.
"It's been unbearable, but we are a very tight family, so we've been able to lean on each other."
Maddy's brother Richard says his sister was an inspiration to others:
"Maddy was a very formidable character - absolutely devoted to her family, her football, and her work.
"She was a pleasure to be around, and Maddy is a real loss not only to us, but the wider world too.
"Every day I go to bed wondering how I've got through the day without her."
An investigation into Maddy's death by the FA is continuing, while a review at Sheffield United found 'no evidence of wrongdoing' at the club.