A RUGBY league player has tragically died aged 31 after collapsing in a pre-season training session, according to reports.
The unnamed player was rushed to hospital, but died in the ambulance on the way.
Aberglasslyn Ants retired their No8 jersey for the remainder of last season[/caption]
The rugby ace played for Australian team Aberglasslyn Ants.
Following their tragic passing, a NSW Rugby League spokesperson said: “The NSWRL expresses its deepest sympathy to the family of an Aberglasslyn Ants player who sadly passed away in Maitland Hospital on Tuesday night after collapsing at training at McKeachies Oval.
“The NSWRL is concentrating its efforts to provide full support for his family, teammates, club, and the local rugby league community.
“We ask that the media respect the family’s privacy during this incredibly traumatic time.
“There are a lot of important processes that need to be followed by authorities including police who may be required to prepare a report for the coroner.”
This is the second time in the last year that the Aberglasslyn Ants have been struck by tragedy.
Last June a player in their 20s, not named, died of injuries suffered during a match.
They were airlifted to hospital in critical condition but sadly died of their injuries.
Aberglasslyn Ants responded at the time by retiring their No8 jersey for the rest of the season.
They wrote in a statement: “As the sun was setting over Mckeachies Oval yesterday afternoon, we remember you.
“As we lay to rest our #8 jerseys for the remainder of the season in your honour, we remember you as a friend, a brother, a father and simply one of the kindest souls in our club.
“At this stage, we will be protecting the identity of the player, whilst his family comes to terms with the enormity of this loss.
“We thank Tooheys Newcastle & Hunter Community Rugby League and the community for their ongoing support of our club, staff and players.”
