Lions player Hyron Andrews has died of an apparent heart attack in La Rochelle, a day before the two sides were due to meet in the European Champions Cup.
Reports in France have suggested the Lions player, 31, was found unresponsive in a shower stall at a hotel on the idyllic Ile de Re – just outside of La Rochelle on Friday morning.
Emergency services arrived but were unable to resuscitate Andrews who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Ile de Re venue confirmed to a French website that a psychological support unit had been set up for the Lions players and staff as well as hotel employees.
The Lions released a statement on Friday afternoon confirming the tragic passing of Andrews before paying tribute to him.
They said: ‘The Lions Rugby Company is deeply saddened by the passing of player Hyron Andrews while on tour with the 10bet Lions ahead of their Investec Champions Cup and Vodacom United Rugby Championship fixtures.
Lions player Hyron Andrews has died of an apparent heart attack in La Rochelle, a day before the two sides were due to meet in the European Champions Cup
This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the international rugby community.
‘The former Sharks and Sale Sharks lock forward was a valued member of the Lions family, and his loss will be felt profoundly by his teammates, coaches, supporters and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
‘Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go to Hyron’s wife, Maiglin, their young sons, and the entire Andrews family.
‘We hold them in our thoughts during this time of unimaginable grief and ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn.’
The club confirmed that the Lions would play tomorrow match against La Rochelle in ‘honour of Hyron’.
Rudolf Straeuli, CEO of the Lions, added: ‘We are heartbroken by the passing of Hyron. He was not only a gifted rugby player, but also a cherished member of our Lions family having recently joined us this season.
‘On behalf of our Chairman, Mr Altmann Allers, the board and everyone at the Lions, I extend our deepest sympathies to Maiglin, their young sons Hendrix and Emerson and the entire Andrews family.
‘We stand with them in their sorrow and will remember Hyron with great affection and respect.’
More to follow…
