A Heartbreaking Loss: Father of Three Succumbs to Severe Brain Injury in Rugby Match
In a tragic turn of events, a 33-year-old father of three has passed away just hours after sustaining a severe brain injury during a rugby match in New Zealand. Cory Heather, who played for the Beachlands Maraetai Club in Auckland, reportedly took a knee to the head that left him unconscious on the field.
The incident occurred on Saturday at Te Puru Park, where a rescue chopper was called to transport Heather to Auckland City Hospital in critical condition. His mother, partner Rachel Hurcombe, and their three young children, aged five or under, were present at the match, witnessing the heartbreaking accident unfold.
Heather’s family made the difficult decision to turn off his life support on Sunday, surrounded by their loved ones. The rugby community has rallied to support the family, with a fundraising page set up to assist them, raising over $36,000 at the time of writing.
“Described as a ‘much-loved partner’ and ‘hands-on father,’ Heather was also a cherished member of the Beachlands Maraetai Club.”
The club’s president, James Gemmell, expressed the organization’s profound grief over the loss, stating that Heather’s family, friends, and teammates have their unwavering love and support.
The match Heather was playing in was weight-restricted, with no player over 85kg allowed to compete. Gemmell acknowledged the traumatic impact the accident had on the opposition, match officials, and spectators.
Away from rugby, Heather was a builder and a director of Woodstar Construction. The New Zealand Rugby Union CEO, Mark Robinson, conveyed the organization’s “deepest condolences” to Heather’s family, assuring them that all of New Zealand Rugby stands with them during this difficult time.
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with the sport of rugby and the importance of player safety. The rugby community in New Zealand and beyond mourns the loss of Cory Heather, a beloved father, partner, and teammate whose memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
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