North Adelaide have rallied around midfielder Sam Ramsay after the former Carlton AFL draftee learned of a devastating cancer diagnosis.

The 24-year-old was struck down by back pain in May, putting his SANFL campaign on hold, but it soon became more serious than a standard injury layoff.

Ramsay underwent a battery of tests before being diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma — a “rare and aggressive” bone cancer commonly affecting children and people in their 20s, in particular boys and men.

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“Sam is currently undergoing extensive radiation treatment and may require surgery as part of his fight against this illness,” North Adelaide said.

“Despite the challenges, Sam remains a highly valued and respected member of our playing group.

“His commitment to staying connected has been unwavering, including a recent trip to Port Pirie to support the team in our match against his former club South Adelaide.”

Teammates donated a portion of their match payments from that match to help support Ramsay, who has been off work while undergoing treatment.

North Adelaide said a fundraiser has been planned for next weekend’s home game at Prospect Oval.

“Sam, his family and the entire club remain hopeful for a successful treatment outcome,” the club said.

“We look forward to seeing Sam return to full health and fitness soon.”

Ramsay was drafted to the AFL at the end of 2019 but his first season with Carlton was ruined by COVID, with the AFL season paused and the VFL cancelled entirely.

The Calder Cannons junior then played eight games for the Blues’ VFL side in 2021.

Delisted by Carlton at the end of that year, he spent two seasons at South Adelaide before joining North Adelaide ahead of the 2024 campaign.