Footballer ‘died taking pills in Ibiza' on first lads holiday as family pays heartbreaking tribute to ‘smiling boy'
The 18-year-old's devastated family have paid tribute to the "smiling boy" who tragically passed away on Tuesday after taking an ecstasy tablet on the popular party island.
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Ryan Long, from Eastwood Essex, reportedly started to feel unwell in the UNVRS nightclub the evening he and his friends arrived on the island.
When the group returned back to their rented apartment, the teenager fell unconscious and was air lifted to the Palma De Mallorca hospital.
Despite medics best efforts, however, Ryan tragically died just five days later after suffering from acute organ failure.
His parents, Adrian and Angel Long, have since spoken about the devastating loss of their son and have urged other teenagers to think twice before dabbling with drugs.
In an emotional plea, they warned, it's "not worth taking the risk".
Adrian told the Mail Online: "Everyone thinks nothing is going to happen to them but unfortunately it does. He's not going to be the first and he won't be the last."
He added: "Ryan obviously didn't know anything about it at the end, but he's left his mates absolutely traumatised. They witnessed him going downhill and going unconscious."
Described as a "lovely lad" who was "always full of life" and "smiling", Ryan was also an avid footballer and swam for his county.
Ben Bradford, owner of local football club, Ben Bradford Goalkeeping Academy (BBGK), has since set up a GoFundMe page to help support the lad's grieving family.
In a heartfelt post, Ben called on the community to band together and "show their love" and help support Ryan's family who are experiencing "unimaginable pain".
Spanish cops find biggest ever haul of deadly Ibiza party drugs pink cocaine & ecstasy worth £21m at Brit hols hotspots
The fund has exceeded its £2,500 target with over £8,250 raised to date.
Paying an emotional tribute to the teenager, he said the boy's family has been an integral part of the football club "since the beginning".
He wrote: "At BBGK, we are more than just a training ground, we are a close knit community that supports one another through every triumph and every trial.
"One of our long-standing members and his family are experiencing an unimaginable loss, following the recent passing of a beloved brother and son.
"This family has been with me since the very beginning—nearly 10 years—and they are truly part of the heart and history of our academy.
"Many within our community have already reached out to me, asking how they can show their love and stand beside the family during this time.
"First and foremost, your thoughts, your kindness, and your support mean everything.
"For those who feel moved to contribute in a small way, a GoFundMe page has been set up.
"There is absolutely no expectation—this is simply an option for those who wish to offer a gesture of solidarity and care.
"Let's continue to support each other, not just as players, coaches, and parents, but as a family.
"We are BBGK. We stand together. Always."
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