Michael Pisker: Footy star in induced coma as family braces itself to reveal devastating news nobody wants to hear when he wakes up

A footballer in Melbourne is in an induced coma after suffering serious injuries during a game last weekend.

Michael Pisker's head collided with the legs of an opposition player as he ran back with the flight of the ball during St Kevin's Old Boys Football Club's clash with Melbourne University in the VAFA on Saturday, July 20.

The match was stopped and he was attended to by club medical staff before paramedics arrived on the scene.

Footage of the incident was initially viewable on the league's website but has since been removed given its graphic nature.  

The footy community has come together to help the 26-year-old, with a huge $120,000 raised via a GoFundMe page to help pay for Pisker's medical bills and living expenses during his recovery.

You can donate to the fundraiser HERE.  

Pisker's mother, Alexandra, revealed the extent of her son's injuries, saying he suffered 'two traumas to his head'.

'Michael is 26 years old and widely considered one of the most talented footballers in the competition,' the page says.

'Michael is a kind and loyal friend to all on and off the field. His booming left foot, fierce determination to win the ball and courageous play define him.

'Currently, Michael is in an induced coma in the intensive care unit of the Alfred Hospital. The medical team have provided Michael with the most amazing care, compassion, professionalism, expertise and love.' 

She added that the family will have to break devastating news to Pisker that he will not be able to see out of his right eye when he wakes up.

'Michael faces significant challenges ahead with multiple surgeries to rebuild and manage the resultant damage to his head and eye,' the fundraising page went on.

'Sadly, it has already been confirmed that Michael will not regain vision in his right eye.

'We are still assessing how much surgery and rehabilitation will be required. We expect it to be significant. It is also anticipated that Michael will need to take substantial time off from his work as he enters an intensive period of rehabilitation.

'Michael is dearly loved by his family and his friends and have chosen to initiate this fundraising to assist with the upcoming costs. We have been very touched by the outpouring of support and concern for Michael's situation.'

The SKOBFC president thanked club doctor Kim Whelan and senior trainer Maddy McCavana for taking care of Pisker when he initially suffered the knock.  

'The medical team did an incredible job until assistance arrived from paramedics,' Patrick Mount said.

'A long road of recovery is ahead and the club and family sincerely appreciate the well wishes of support from VAFA HQ, the umpires, University Blues, fellow VAFA clubs and the wider SKOBFC community.

'Michael is one of the most popular, talented and courageous players at the club and we are fully committed to assisting him in his recovery and rehabilitation. Our thoughts are with Michael, his mum Alexandra, his sister Maria and girlfriend Sasha at this point in time.

'We kindly ask that the privacy of the family be respected during this difficult time.'