Tragedy as rugby player, 20, dies after she's injured during match
29.03.2022 - 18:33
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
A university rugby player has died following a fatal injury she received during a match. Winger Maddy Lawrence, 20, had been playing for the University of West England Women's second XV against the University of Bristol on March 7 when she suffered the injury.
She tragically died later on in hospital on Friday, March 25. Her rugby club wrote in honour of Maddy on Instagram, saying: "Maddy exemplified what it means to be a UWE Women’s Rugby Player, ‘tackling’ every new skill with enthusiasm. She proudly represented our club both on and off the rugby pitch, growing into the sport and our rugby family.
"Maddy was a bubbly girl who was so fun to be around. Whenever she smiled and laughed you couldn’t help but smile and laugh with her.
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"That was the sort of player, friend, sister and daughter Maddy was. Her everlasting energy has left its mark on this club, she will forever be our number 11 and will forever be our friend.”
The RFU Tweeted: “On behalf of everyone at the RFU, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of Maddy Lawrence. The thoughts of everyone in the game are with UWE Women’s rugby, their players, members and the wider rugby community.”
Maddy’s coach, Tom Monks, head of UWE Women’s Rugby Union, said: “Maddy was an absolute pleasure to coach. She wanted to learn and appreciated every playing opportunity that her dedication warranted.
"The unity and togetherness of this year’s squad is the strongest I’ve ever felt in my 20 years of coaching and Maddy’s beaming smile and warmth embodied the incredible bond we have.”
Teammate Maddie Crofts said: "She was honestly the nicest person I have ever met. She was