Tragedy as promising rugby star Nicolas Haddad dies aged 15 after suffering cardiac arrest during match
PROMISING rugby player Nicolas Haddad has died aged 15 after suffering a cardiac arrest during a match in Corsica.
The teenager inadvertently took a blow to the head while stooping for a tackle in a game on March 15.
He subsequently collapsed on the field, before going into cardiac arrest.
Haddad was seen to by a nurse and a firefighter who had been watching the match, before being taken to hospital in Bastia.
The teenager did not regain consciousness and his death was heartbreakingly confirmed by professional side RC Toulon, with Haddad having played for their affiliate squad, Saint-Maximin-Brignoles-Val d’Issole (RSMXV).
A club statement read: “It is with infinite sadness that we inform you of the death of Nicolas Haddad, a child of the RSMXV from the M6 category and who played as cadets in the agreement of our three clubs and at the RCT.
“All our prayers go to the family who wishes to preserve their intimacy.
“Our clubs thank the leaders of Bastia XV, the South Rugby League, the Corsican Rugby League and the FFR for supporting parents and the team.”
Toulon co-president Patrice Blachere added: “It’s an absolute tragedy. Rugby is in mourning. Nicolas Haddad has left us.
“All our thoughts go to his wonderful family and all those who supported them.”
Blachere added of Haddad, who had joined the club aged just six: “When we suggested he join us in the RCT Passion project, he was overjoyed. It was a source of pride for him and his parents.
“He loved rugby, and it is terrible to lose such a passionate young athlete.”
Several tributes will be paid to Haddad.
All matches in the region this weekend will be preceded by a minute’s silence in his memory.
While Toulon will also pay tribute to Haddad at their Top 14 game against USA Perpignan this Saturday.