A football club has honored their “incredibly beloved” and “gifted” 15-year-old player who tragically lost his life while swimming in a lake in south-east London.

Izaiah Smith was discovered in Beckenham Place Park, located in the Lewisham borough, at 22:42 BST on Friday, more than seven hours after law enforcement initiated a search for him.

The heartfelt tribute was shared in a statement on X by Izaiah’s team, Dorking Wanderers FC, on Sunday.

“We are utterly heartbroken to hear of the loss of one of our young athletes – Izaiah Smith. It is truly difficult to articulate the depth of this tragedy,” read the post.

The tribute continued: “Izaiah was a remarkably popular and gifted young man who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. The club is committed to offering support to all affected in any way we can.

“During this incredibly challenging time, our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates.”

Starz Elite Development Academy expressed its sorrow on Instagram, stating, “We mourn the loss of our cherished U16 player, Izaiah Smith.”

The west London organization remarked, “Izaiah was a shining presence in our program. He was a regular at training, always greeting everyone with a wonderful smile.

“His vibrant personality and contagious enthusiasm will be profoundly missed. He was a genuinely respectful individual, consistently demonstrating kindness and consideration towards all coaches and staff.”

Helen Hayes, Member of Parliament for Dulwich & West Norwood, shared her condolences on X, noting that Izaiah attended Kingsdale Foundation School in West Dulwich.

“My thoughts are with Izaiah’s family, friends, and the entire Kingsdale School community as they grieve his heartbreaking loss,” she remarked.

Authorities reported that Scotland Yard received calls shortly after 15:00 BST on Friday concerning a boy in trouble in the water.

Specialized dive teams, ambulance personnel, and firefighters participated in the search effort, according to the police.

A representative from the Met stated that the teenager was recovered from the water and transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

His death is considered unexpected but not regarded as suspicious.

A spokesperson for Lewisham Council indicated that the lake would remain off-limits with security measures in place “until further notice.”