Father-of-three dies from head injury sustained in Auckland club rugby game
This article is based on www.stuff.co.nz/
A rugby player has died after sustaining a severe brain injury during an under-85kg match in Auckland on Saturday (27th June).
Cory Heather, 33, was airlifted from Te Puru Park in Beachlands to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition, the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust said.
He died on Sunday evening, the day after he was injured, according to a Givealittle page set up to support his wife, Rachel Hurcombe, and children Stevie, 5, Benji, 4, and Louie, 1.
The Givealittle page called Heather a “much-loved partner... hands-on father... and a cherished friend to so many. A bright spark who lead an exceptional life and will be so dearly missed.”
It can be accessed at: Support for Rachel Hurcombe and her family - Givealittle
Beachlands Maraetai Rugby Club said in a Facebook post that Heather had “passed away as a result of an accident” at Te Puru Park.
“Cory was a much-loved member of the Senior Under 85kg team, the Club and wider community,” said club president James Gemmell.
“The club is heartbroken by Cory’s passing. His family, friends and teammates, all have our love and support. We understand the accident will have been traumatic for many involved, including the opposition, match officials and spectators.”
In a statement, New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said: “On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I would like to share our deepest condolences and love to Cory’s family. Our thoughts are also with the Beachlands Maraetai Rugby Club and the local region who will be feeling the immense loss of a much-loved member of their community.
“Please know that all of New Zealand rugby is with you. NZR is providing support alongside Counties Manukau Rugby Union and the New Zealand Rugby Foundation.”
“Our thoughts are also with the Beachlands Maraetai Rugby Club and the local region who will be feeling the immense loss of a much-loved member of their community.”