A New Zealand rugby player has died at just 30 years old after suffering what his team described as an “unsurvivable” injury during a game earlier this month.
Eugene Hanna, who played for the Glenora Bears in Auckland, passed away Tuesday after spending 10 days in the hospital fighting for his life.
The tragic injury happened during the team’s opening match of the season on May 2 against Te Atatu.
Officials have not publicly revealed exactly what kind of injury Hanna suffered, though New Zealand Rugby League later referenced the importance of concussion and head injury protocols in a statement following his death.
Hanna played on the club’s Premier Reserves squad and was remembered by teammates and loved ones as a beloved figure both on and off the field.
“Eugene sustained an injury in the team’s first game of the season against Te Atatu, which was tragically unsurvivable,” Glenora Bears chairwoman Janet Hunt said in an emotional statement shared online.
“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.”
She added, “Forever in our hearts.”
Outside of rugby, Hanna was also a passionate soccer player and played for Renegades FC in the New Zealand Christian Football League.
The soccer club described him as the “heartbeat” of the team.
“He was the biggest character, a brilliant player, but most importantly, the kindest person,” the club wrote in a tribute posted to Instagram.
Following Hanna’s death, the New Zealand Rugby League released a statement emphasizing the importance of player safety, particularly when it comes to head injuries and concussions.
“This is truly heartbreaking and something we never want to see happen,” the organization said.
League officials added that they work year-round to educate players and teams on concussion symptoms and return-to-play safety protocols.
“We urge anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences any symptoms to seek the appropriate medical advice and treatment,” the statement continued.
Hanna’s death has sent shockwaves through New Zealand’s rugby community, where friends, teammates, and fans continue mourning the sudden loss of the young athlete.