September 4, 2019 2.56 pm This story is over 54 months old

Lincolnshire rugby club in shock after player’s death

Memorial games will be arranged in his memory

Max Hunter showed great speed and effectiveness when playing on the wing for Stamford. Photo: Stamford Rugby Club

Stamford Rugby Club have released a tribute in memory of one of their players who recently died after a battle with mental illness.

Max Hunter, 29, who showed great speed when scoring tries on the wing for Stamford’s Senior 1st XV, died on August 23, 2019.

The club will be organising a number of memorial games to celebrate Max’s life and raise awareness of mental health. The events, which will be announced in due course, will also raise money for some mental health charities.

Max played for the club for many years, who described him as a “talented player with a great sense of humour”. His parents also asked the club to highlight the ‘quiet’ illness that affects so many people in different ways.

Austin Schwarz, Head Coach of the 1st XV, said: “This is a real loss for the team, not just as a player but as a true friend to all the lads.

“Max was integral in the team, hard-working, loyal and a great all-rounder. I speak on behalf of all the lads when I say he will be highly missed.

“It’s a very emotional time at the club but I know the players will go out and play the games as if he was still on the pitch.”

Mark Anderson, Chairman of Stamford Rugby Club, added: “This has come as a great shock to the club. Max was part of our rugby family and was proud to wear the purple, black and white.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time.”