Family Pays Tribute to Former Nottingham Forest Academy Footballer Josh Travis, 14, After Tragic Train Death

The family of a teenage footballer have shared a heartbreaking tribute after his life was cut short in a tragic incident that has left an entire community in mourning.

Josh Travis, a former academy goalkeeper for Nottingham Forest, died on Wednesday evening after being struck by a train in Nottinghamshire. He was just 14 years old.

Emergency services were called to the railway line near Burton Joyce shortly after 7 p.m. following reports of a casualty on the tracks. Despite the rapid response of paramedics, Josh was pronounced dead at the scene.

British Transport Police later confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious. Officers said a file would be prepared for the coroner in due course.

News of Josh’s passing spread quickly, sending shockwaves through his family, friends, teammates, and the wider football community. Many struggled to comprehend how a young life filled with promise could end so suddenly.

In a statement released through the media, Josh’s family spoke of a boy whose energy and warmth touched everyone around him. They described him as full of life, with a mischievous smile and kind, sparkling eyes.

“Josh had an incredible energy for life and so much love to give,” the family said. “He leaves a gap in our lives that is and will always be impossible to fill, and we will miss him forever.”

Those words echoed the sentiments shared by many who knew him. To them, Josh was not only a talented footballer but a presence that lifted others.

Josh had previously been part of Nottingham Forest’s academy system, where he trained as a goalkeeper. Coaches and teammates remembered him as dedicated, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.

Following confirmation of his death, Nottingham Forest issued a public tribute expressing their sorrow. The club said everyone associated with Forest was deeply saddened by the loss of their former academy player.

“Our thoughts are with Josh’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time,” the club said in a statement shared on social media.

Tributes also poured in from grassroots football organisations where Josh continued to develop his skills. Aspire Football Coaching posted an emotional message with the blessing of his parents.

They described Josh as a fantastic goalkeeper and a great character within his age group. Coaches said he was polite, funny, and a pleasure to have around both on and off the pitch.

“Josh made a real impact, not just as a footballer but as a person,” the organisation said. “He will be sorely missed.”

As a mark of respect, Aspire Football Coaching announced that all matches scheduled for the weekend would be postponed. The decision reflected how deeply Josh’s loss was felt within the club.

Burton Joyce Football Club also released a tribute, describing the entire club family as devastated by the tragedy.

The club noted that the Travis family had been closely connected to Burton Joyce FC for many years. Players, coaches, and parents alike expressed their support during what they called an unimaginable time.

They confirmed that a minute’s silence would be held at all games to honor Josh’s memory. “Rest peacefully, Josh,” the statement read. “You’ll always be part of our family.”

Beyond football grounds, members of the public left floral tributes and handwritten messages at the Chestnut Grove footpath level crossing. The site became a quiet place of reflection for those wishing to pay their respects.

Flowers, scarves, and notes spoke of loss, love, and disbelief. Many messages came from people who had never met Josh but were moved by his story.

In response to the incident, Network Rail requested the emergency closure of the crossing. Officials said the measure was taken while inquiries continue.

Mark Budden, Network Rail’s route director for the East Midlands, offered condolences on behalf of the organisation. He said their immediate thoughts were with everyone affected by the tragedy.

“Safety is our top priority,” Budden said. “We are fully supporting the Rail Accident Investigation Branch as part of their ongoing inquiries.”

Local residents described the area around Burton Joyce as close-knit and family-oriented. For many, the loss of a teenager known through school, sport, or community events felt deeply personal.

Teachers and classmates have also been affected, with schools offering support services to students struggling to process the news. Counselors were made available to help young people cope with grief.

Josh’s death has prompted renewed conversations about safety around railway crossings, particularly those used by pedestrians. Officials emphasized the importance of awareness and caution near rail lines.

At the same time, community leaders stressed that the focus should remain on compassion and remembrance rather than speculation. They urged respect for the family’s privacy.

Those closest to Josh remember a boy who loved football, laughter, and being around others. Friends recalled his humor and his ability to make people feel included.

As a goalkeeper, he was praised for his focus and bravery. Coaches said he approached training with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to improve.

Yet those who knew him best say football was only part of who he was. They spoke of his kindness, his curiosity, and the joy he brought into everyday moments.

The loss of a young person often carries a particular weight, cutting across generations. Parents grieve not only for the child lost but for the future that will never unfold.

In Josh’s case, that future included dreams shaped by football and friendship. Those dreams now live on only in memory.

As tributes continue to be shared online and in person, the community remains united in grief. Many have expressed hope that remembering Josh will also encourage care, kindness, and awareness.

For Nottingham Forest and the clubs that helped shape him, Josh’s name will not be forgotten. He remains part of their history and their hearts.

For his family, the road ahead will be long and painful. Their words reflect a love that endures beyond loss.

“We will miss him forever,” they said.

And in stadiums, classrooms, and quiet corners of Nottinghamshire, that promise is echoed by all who remember a 14-year-old boy whose life ended far too soon.