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A New Zealand rugby player died on Tuesday after suffering “unsurvivable” injuries during his team’s season opener, the club confirmed. He was 30.
Glenora Rugby League Football Club chairman Janet Hunt confirmed Eugene Hanna’s death in a post on Facebook. According to Hunt’s statement, Hanna was seriously injured during a match against the Te Atatu Roosters.
While no other details surrounding the circumstances of Hanna’s death were immediately known, the New Zealand Rugby League issued a statement on Thursday warning of the dangers of head injuries and the importance of concussion protocol. (Getty Images)
“It is with a heavy heart that we inform our members of the passing of Eugene Hanna on Tuesday. Eugene was a valued player in our Premier Reserves squad and although a new Bears member had great friends at the club,” Hunt’s statement began.
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“Eugene sustained an injury in the team’s first game of the season against Te Atatu which was tragically unsurvivable. The Glenora Bears would like to express their gratitude to the Te Atatu Roosters members who assisted at the scene, the paramedics in attendance and Auckland Hospital for their care over the past two weeks.”
The Roosters also released a statement offering their condolences to the club.
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While no other details surrounding the circumstances surrounding Hanna’s death were immediately known, the New Zealand Rugby League issued a statement on Thursday warning of the dangers of head injuries and the importance of concussion protocols.
“The NRZL takes the safety and welfare of players very seriously and works hard to prevent such tragic outcomes. We have strict head injury and concussion protocols in place and work with our rugby league community to ensure adequate resources and training year-round.
According to Glenora Rugby League Football Club president Janet Hunt, Hanna was seriously injured during a match against the Te Atatu Roosters. (Getty Images)
“We encourage anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences symptoms to follow current guidelines, seek appropriate medical advice and treatment and only return to play when advised and appropriate.”
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Several clubs issued statements showing an outpouring of support following Hanna’s death, including Renegades FC of the New Zealand Christian Football League, where Hanna previously played.
