Rugby player dies after collapsing during game
Lachlan Ward, 25, collapsed while playing in a fifth grade match for the Warringah Rats. Photo: Facebook
A 25-year-old man has died after collapsing during a rugby match on Sydney’s northern beaches.
Lachlan Ward was playing for Warringah Rugby Club when he collapsed about 1:45pm on Saturday at a field near Narrabeen.
Emergency services performed CPR on the man but he died at the scene, police said, with a report now being prepared for the coroner.
At 3pm, the Warringah Rats Official Supporters Page posted to Facebook advising any remaining games at Rat Park on Saturday had been cancelled “due to an incident involving an injury to a player during a game”.
Australian Rugby Union boss Bill Pulver was among those to send his condolences to Ward’s friends and family.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of Lachlan’s passing in such tragic circumstances on the rugby field yesterday afternoon,” Pulver said in a statement on Sunday.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Lachlan’s family, his teammates, friends, and all at the close-knit Warringah Rugby Club and NSW Rugby Union.
“Outside of Lachlan’s family, there were many witnesses to yesterday’s events at the ground and those brave players, volunteers, medical and club staff who assisted Lachlan are also in our thoughts today.
“We will work with NSW Rugby Union to support all those affected by this tragedy.”
Randwick Rugby and Norths Rugby clubs also wrote to the family of the deceased player and the Warringah Rugby Club on social media.
Fans also took to Facebook after news of the death filtered through the club.
“Thoughts are with this beautiful boy and his family, terrible loss,” one woman wrote.
“We are so sad to hear this devastating news. Our thoughts are with the family and all the Rats,” another wrote.
– with AAP