A SCHOOLBOY rugby league player died after being crushed by weightlifting equipment in his local police youth club gym.

Ben Shaw, 15, was attempting to bench press almost 100kg (220 lb) when the freak accident happened in Brisbane, Australia.

The youth club gym where the tragedy happened
He was found by staff trapped under the hefty weights and taken to hospital on Wednesday, where he later died from his injuries.

It is not known how long he was trapped under the weightlifting equipment at Pine Rivers PCYC (Police-Citizens Youth Clubs).

Press reports from Australia claim the weight fell onto the teenager's throat.

"Ben passed away yesterday afternoon with his family and friends around him," his family said in a statement.

"Ben was able to leave a legacy and donate his organs and tissue, giving life to others."

Other tributes have flowed in for the teen as an investigation into his shocking death continues.

In a brief statement on their Facebook page, Pine Rivers PCYC said: "Our thoughts and deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Ben Shaw at this difficult time.'

Hours earlier Ben's father Scott took to social media to share a photo of his son smiling and wearing a hat of his beloved NRL team the North Queensland Cowboys.

It's been reported the weight fell on his neck
The teenager's pals also paid tribute saying he was "loved by many" and leaving floral tributes at the youth club.

One wrote: "Tragically taken away far too soon… my deepest condolences go out to his parents, family and friends."

Another added: "Taken way too early brother… like they say the good die young, it's not fair one bit."

His junior rugby league club also praised the teenager for leaving behind a 'legacy' with his family's decision to donate his organs.

Authorities said it was too early to say whether charges would be laid, but they would conduct a thorough investigation.