Leicester Tigers are deeply saddened to learn of the death of a local player during a first-team fixture last weekend.
Oakham RFC player Savenaca Koroibulileka collapsed during the second half of a Midlands Intermediate Cup match on Saturday after he collapsed just moments after scoring a try. Medical treatment was given on the pitch and the player was taken to Peterborough Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead on arrival.
The following statement was issued by Oakham RFC:
“Oakham RFC is saddened to announce the passing of Savenaca Kokoibulileka on Saturday, September 24. He collapsed shortly after the start of the second half during the match between Oakham and West Bridgford at the Rutland Showgrounds.
“The club is grateful to the work of the ambulance service who were promptly in attendance. Despite their best efforts, Savenaca was pronounced dead on arrival at Peterborough Hospital.
“The thoughts and prayers of the club, its players and supporters are all with Savenaca's family at this very difficult time. The club is also very grateful for the overwhelming support and messages of condolence already received from far and wide which we will pass on to his family.’’
Savenaca had also been a member at Bourne RUFC in Lincolnshire.
A Just Giving page has been set up in his memory, supported by Oakham RFC. You can click here to show your support.
Richard Cockerill, director of rugby at Leicester Tigers, said: “It is very sad to learn of a sudden death within the rugby family, especially in one of our local clubs.
“On behalf of the players and staff at Tigers, as well as the supporters, we send our condolences to the family and to everyone connected with Oakham Rugby Club.
"At times like these the rugby family always pulls together to look after one of its own and we hope we can all provide some support for those affected by this tragic news.”
Oakham RFC player Savenaca Koroibulileka collapsed during the second half of a Midlands Intermediate Cup match on Saturday after he collapsed just moments after scoring a try. Medical treatment was given on the pitch and the player was taken to Peterborough Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead on arrival.
The following statement was issued by Oakham RFC:
“Oakham RFC is saddened to announce the passing of Savenaca Kokoibulileka on Saturday, September 24. He collapsed shortly after the start of the second half during the match between Oakham and West Bridgford at the Rutland Showgrounds.
“The club is grateful to the work of the ambulance service who were promptly in attendance. Despite their best efforts, Savenaca was pronounced dead on arrival at Peterborough Hospital.
“The thoughts and prayers of the club, its players and supporters are all with Savenaca's family at this very difficult time. The club is also very grateful for the overwhelming support and messages of condolence already received from far and wide which we will pass on to his family.’’
Savenaca had also been a member at Bourne RUFC in Lincolnshire.
A Just Giving page has been set up in his memory, supported by Oakham RFC. You can click here to show your support.
Richard Cockerill, director of rugby at Leicester Tigers, said: “It is very sad to learn of a sudden death within the rugby family, especially in one of our local clubs.
“On behalf of the players and staff at Tigers, as well as the supporters, we send our condolences to the family and to everyone connected with Oakham Rugby Club.
"At times like these the rugby family always pulls together to look after one of its own and we hope we can all provide some support for those affected by this tragic news.”
