A New Zealand rugby player has tragically died after suffering what his club described as an "unsurvivable" injury during a game in Auckland, New Zealand.
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Eugene Hanna, 30, died on Tuesday after spending 10 days in hospital following the incident during the Glenora Bears season opener on May 2.
The club has not publicly detailed the exact nature of the injury.
Rugby Player Dies After Suffering Devastating Injury During Match
Glenora Bears chairwoman Janet Hunt confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement on Wednesday.
"Eugene was a valued player in our Premier Reserves squad, and although a new Bears member had good friends within the club," the statement read.
"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."
Away from rugby league, Hanna also played soccer for Renegades FC in the New Zealand Christian Football League.
The club paid tribute to Hanna following his death.
"Eugene is the heartbeat of Renegades," the team said. "He was the biggest character, a brilliant player, but most importantly the kindest person."
"Everyone is absolutely devastated."
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Renegades FC later added: "He played football the way he played life - at full noise with all his heart."
"We are so fortunate to have had Eugene enter our lives and fill our hearts with positivity and love."
New Zealand Rugby League also released a statement following Hanna's death and specifically referenced "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.
"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."
The statement concluded by encouraging players who suffer head injuries or concussion symptoms to follow the correct medical guidelines and only return to action when medically cleared.
