A New Zealand rugby league community is in mourning after the death of Eugene Hanna, who passed away aged 30 after suffering what has been described as an ‘unsurvivable’ injury during a match earlier this month.
Hanna, who played for the Glenora Bears Premier Reserves side, was injured in the opening game of the season on May 2 against the Te Atatū Roosters in West Auckland.
He was rushed to hospital and remained under care for around 10 days before tragically dying on Tuesday.
Club chairwoman Janet Hunt confirmed the news in a statement, describing Hanna as a valued member of the squad who had quickly formed strong bonds within the team despite being a recent addition.
‘Eugene sustained an injury in the team’s first game of the season… which was tragically unsurvivable,’ she said.
‘There are not enough words to express the unimaginable loss and grief.’
Glenora Bears player Eugene Hanna died after suffering an ‘unsurvivable’ injury during season opener in Auckland
Hanna was a talented athlete who played Aussie Rules and football for clubs in New Zealand
Teammates, opponents and medical staff have all been acknowledged, with the club thanking those who assisted at the scene, as well as paramedics and Auckland Hospital staff for their efforts during his treatment.
Hanna was also remembered beyond rugby league, having played football for Lynn-Avon United AFC, with former clubs and teammates describing him as a ‘brilliant player’ and ‘kind-hearted person’ who was deeply valued in every team environment.
He also played football for Whangamata Football Club, with several former teammates leaving tributes.
‘Unbelievable. What a lovely lad; funny, cheeky good looking man. Really sad to wake up to this. Privileged to play with him,’ one posted.
‘Eugene was a legend. He was such a lovely guy. So sad and heartbreaking. I feel I lost a family member,’ added another.
The talented sportsman also played Aussie Rules footy in New Zealand for the Waitakere Magpies.
‘A player that had respect across the league for his hard running play style, but was a great character off the field that brought a lot of laughs and entertainment throughout the squad and league,’ the club posted.
‘The two time and current Magpies ‘Players Playah’ leaves a big hole in our hearts, but will leave his legacy to live on with a massive highlight of kicking the game winning goal in the 2016 AAFL grand final for the Magpies.’
Medical staff and paramedics were praised for their response and care provided during Hanna’s hospital treatment period
New Zealand Rugby League reiterated strict concussion and head injury protocols following the tragic on-field incident
The New Zealand Rugby League said it was working closely with clubs and authorities in the aftermath of the tragedy, reiterating the importance of head injury and concussion protocols across the sport.
‘We are deeply saddened that one of our rugby league whānau, Eugene Hanna of the Glenora Bears, has tragically passed away,’ the NZRL posted.
‘First and foremost, we send our sincere condolences to his whānau, friends, teammates, and all who knew and loved Eugene in such a difficult time.
‘This is truly heartbreaking and something we never want to see happen. ARL have been offering support to the family and all involved and will continue to work alongside our Clubs and NZRL through this.
‘ARL places the utmost importance 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.
‘We urge anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences any symptoms to follow the guidelines in place, seek the appropriate medical advice and treatment, and only return to play when advised and appropriate.’
Tributes continue to flow across the New Zealand sporting community as investigations and formal reviews into match safety protocols continue.
