The rugby community is reeling following the shock death of Warringah’s fifth grade player Lachlan Ward over the weekend.
Lachlan was playing the game he loved when he suddenly collapsed and died on the field at Pittwater Park in Sydney.
Tragically, his parents were watching in the crowd. Paramedics reportedly tried to resuscitate Lachlan on the scene but were unsuccessful.
The rugby community have rallied around the Ward family with Wallabies captain Stephen Moore leading the tributes.
“It’s a tragic accident that happened in the game yesterday at Warringah and on behalf of the Wallabies and the broader rugby community, we want to show our support to his family in this time,” Stephen said on Fox Sports News.
“You never like to see that on the rugby field and it’s a very sad day for Australian rugby. We certainly send all our best wishes to his family.”
“It’s tragic anytime you see that, no matter what sport it is. We go out there to have fun and we love what we do. To see something like that it really does hit a chord that’s for sure.”
Lachlan’s older brother Sam (L) has described his sibling as an “amazing bloke.”
Meanwhile Lachlan’s older brother Sam has spoken with the Daily Telegraph, expressing his utter shock at his little brother’s death.
“The doctor told us that he was dead before he arrived at the hospital. I think he might have died at the field,” Sam said.
“My parents were watching… I was waiting because my game was later. I said I couldn’t be there and I wished him good luck and said I’d see him after the game.”
It’s since been speculated the young man could have had a pre-existing medical condition but Sam says Lachlan was the picture of health.
“Lachlan is such an amazing bloke. We are devastated.”
Wallaby captain Stephen Moore has sent his love to the Ward family.
Warringah club president, Phil Parson, took to social media to pen a heartfelt tribute.
“I write this through a flood of tears. I’m wordless. We are family and you are my family. I have had messages from all over the world of heartfelt, sincere sympathy for the Ward family and club,” Phil said.
“I’m sincere in my comment that I don’t know what to do next except hug your family and support the Wards and extended family anyway we can.”
NSW Rugby Union Chief Executive Andrew Hore also lent his support.
“It is terribly sad news to learn of Lachlan’s passing and our thoughts are with Lachlan’s family, his friends and all who knew him,” Andrew said.
“The Warringah Rats are a tight-knit club, who will need time coming to terms with what’s happened. They are a strong club and will rally and support Lachlan’s family and each other during this difficult time.
“The NSW Rugby Union will be there to support all those affected by this tragedy in the time ahead and we know the rugby community will be there to help as well.”
A report is currently being prepared for the coroner.
