Footy Coach Pens Heartbreaking Open Letter After Death Of Son In Car Accident

    "We love you so much, always and forever."

    Hawthorn assistant coach Brett Ratten is mourning the death of his 16-year-old son Cooper, who died in a car crash in the early hours of Sunday morning.

    Cooper, along with two teammates from his AFL team, spent the hours before the crash at a function put on by his AFL club. It is alleged that the trio took keys belonging to a parent before driving away in foggy conditions.

    Thoughts are with the Ratten family. 16 year old Cooper killed in Yarra Glen crash. @9NewsMelb #9newscomau

    Cooper Rennan was in the back seat of a VW Tiguan with two of his friends. It is alleged that the car was traveling in excess of 100km/hr, before failing to take a turn and rolling off the road.

    Cooper, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was thrown 40 metres from the vehicle.

    Brett Ratten has written an open letter in today's Herald Sun, saying the family will "miss him forever."

    Yarra Glen FC pays tribute to Cooper Ratten - killed in this morning's smash. @9NewsMelb #9newscomau

    "We love you so much and we will miss you forever. You will be with us every minute of every day," he wrote. "You had so much potential and ability in the things you set your mind to. You have been taken way too soon and we will miss your smile, your laugh and all your cheekiness."

    "These memories will last forever. I wish I could kiss you, hug you and hold you tight. I love you, my son. "

    "We love you so much always and forever."