Rugby player Eugene Hanna, of the Glenora Bears from Auckland, New Zealand, died on Tuesday aged 30 after sustaining an injury in the team’s opening game on May 2.
Hanna, a member of the Premier Reserves squad, suffered an injury described only as “unsurvivable,” although the team did not detail the exact malady.
He spent 10 days in the hospital attempting to recover before he died.
“Eugene was a valued player in our Premier Reserves squad, and although a new Bears member had good friends within the club,” Glenora Bears chairwoman Janet Hunt said in a statement posted to Facebook.
“Eugene sustained an injury in the team’s first game of the season against Te Atatu, which was tragically unsurvivable.
“To his family, friends, and teammates, we extend our sincere condolences. There are not enough words to express the unimaginable loss and grief you are feeling at this time. Forever in our hearts.”
A two-sport athlete, Hanna also played soccer for the Renegades FC team in the New Zealand Christian Football League.
“Eugene is the heartbeat of Renegades,” an Instagram post by the Renegades FC said.
“He was the biggest character, a brilliant player, but most importantly, the kindest person.”
The New Zealand Rugby League emphasised the importance of safety protocols in a statement, while specifically mentioning “head injury and concussion protocols.”
“This is truly heartbreaking and something we never want to see happen, and we are currently working alongside Auckland Rugby League, his club and other appropriate people,” the league said in its release.
“NZRL places the utmost important on player safety and welfare and work hard to prevent such tragic outcomes.
“We have rigorous head injury and concussion protocols in place and work with our rugby league community to ensure appropriate resources and education are provided year-round.
“We urge anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences any symptoms to follow the guidelines in place, seek the appropriate medical advice and treatment and only return to play when advised and appropriate.”
