Tributes have been paid to a young Tasmanian boy who died on Wednesday after a lifelong battle with brain cancer.

Nine-year-old George McNees was diagnosed with the disease when he was just 11 months old.

Despite surgery that successfully removed 97% of the brain tumor, George’s battle was far from over.

He was given a 30% chance of survival with regular chemotherapy and treatment.

George was an avid sports fan and supported the Tasmania JackJumpers, North Melbourne Football Club and local club the Clarence Roos.

JackJumpers players paid tribute to McNees, saying they were “honoured” to have met him in his first season and to have witnessed his “brave fight” in recent years.

“We send his parents Sarah and Darren and sister Arabella our love and support at this very sad time,” the band said.

Clarence Football Club described George as an “absolute warrior” and “an absolute inspiration”.

“A beautiful boy who loved life and sport above all else,” the club said.

“Rest in peace George, keep scoring goals and shining bright.”

North Melbourne residents said they were “devastated” by the news of George’s death.

“He was a huge Roos fan from the start, spending time at the club and at our home games in Melbourne and Hobart and was a huge influence on our players and staff,” the club said.

“Our thoughts are with George’s mum Sarah, dad Darren, sister Arabella and all the McNees family.”

North Melbourne’s AFLW team will wear black armbands in Sunday’s match to raise funds for the Great Friday Appeal in support of the Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital.