10 Rugby league & Rugby union Players Who Passed Away 2018

10 Rugby league & Rugby union Players Who Passed Away 2018

Dylan Mika

Dylan Gabriel Mika, born on 17 April 1972 in Auckland, New Zealand, was a notable loose forward whose rugby career bridged the Pacific and the All Blacks; of Samoan heritage, he first emerged on the international scene playing two tests for Samoa in 1994 before standing down for three years to become eligible for New Zealand, ultimately earning seven caps and scoring one try for the All Blacks in 1999, including participation in Tri-Nations fixtures and the 1999 Rugby World Cup squad where he started against Italy in Huddersfield. Standing 1.94m tall and weighing around 108kg, Mika shone provincially for Auckland between 1994 and 2000, contributed to Super Rugby with the Blues (1996–1998, 2000) and a season at the Chiefs in 1999, before moving on to play professionally in Japan following the 2000 NPC season . Educated at Marcellin College and later St Peter’s College in Auckland, he was known for his athleticism, work rate in the loose, and leadership qualities—he even captained the Waikato Chiefs in Super Rugby—and was cousin to Pat Lam, who captained Samoa against New Zealand in Mika’s first All Blacks appearance . Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teenager and insulin-dependent thereafter, Mika managed his condition throughout his playing days but ultimately retired from top-level rugby in the early 2000s, his career and life marked by resilience in the face of health challenges . After retirement, he remained involved in rugby communities but tragically suffered a suspected heart attack in Auckland on 20 March 2018 at age 45, a death widely reported on that date though some sources cite 19 March, underscoring the sudden loss felt by both Samoan and New Zealand rugby circles . His passing highlighted awareness of long-term health management for athletes with chronic conditions, and tributes remembered him as a talented flanker whose cross-cultural impact and dedication left a lasting legacy in Pacific rugby.

Thomas Howard

Thomas Howard and Thomas Baty, aged 25 and 26 respectively, both lifelong members of Durham City Rugby Football Club and close friends since their junior days, tragically died in mid-May 2018 while on an amateur rugby tour in Sri Lanka. After an outing to a nightclub in Colombo with teammates from the Clems Pirates squad, both men experienced sudden breathing difficulties and were admitted to Nawaloka Hospital, where Howard passed away on Sunday, May 13, 2018, and Baty on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 . Initial autopsies on Howard revealed no signs of injury or pre-existing illness, prompting further analysis and police review of CCTV footage to clarify the circumstances leading to their collapse . Both were described by club officials as “fun-loving young men you’d be proud to call a son,” entrepreneurial after graduation, having gone into business together, and deeply embedded in the rugby community through leadership roles—Howard as second-team captain and Baty as a talented first-team player—and participation in numerous overseas tours . The Durham City RFC expressed profound sorrow, requesting privacy for the families while assisting them via the Foreign Office, and honored their memory by proceeding with planned charitable initiatives in Galle, distributing rugby kit as a mark of respect . Social media tributes emphasized their affable nature, dedication to sport and community, and the shock felt across amateur rugby circles worldwide . Their unexpected deaths underscored life’s fragility even among the fittest, and though the precise cause of their breathing distress remained undetermined, the continuing inquiries and remembrance matches reflect the enduring impact of Howard and Baty: two promising young athletes whose camaraderie, enthusiasm, and passion for rugby left a lasting legacy among teammates, friends, and the broader rugby fraternity.

Ian Williams

Ian Michael Williams was a 27-year-old English rugby union prop whose sudden death on 20 February 2018 sent shockwaves through the rugby community. Born around 1990 and raised in a rugby-oriented family—his father Phil “Tonka” Williams and mother Pippa were well-known club stalwarts—Williams developed his game from mini rugby at Havant RFC and youth rugby at London Welsh, through varsity appearances for Swansea University and Oxford University, before turning professional with Rotherham Titans and signing for Doncaster Knights in summer 2017 . On the morning of 20 February 2018, during a routine training session at Castle Park, Doncaster, Williams collapsed unexpectedly; despite immediate on-site emergency response efforts, he could not be resuscitated . Five days prior, he had attended Doncaster Royal Infirmary reporting symptoms potentially linked to a lifelong bicuspid aortic valve diagnosis from his teenage years; at the inquest it emerged that the attending clinicians did not take a detailed history, perform a comprehensive examination, or document advice to avoid exertion, resulting in a “seriously gross failure of care” that may have contributed to his fatal aortic dissection or acute cardiac event . The Coroner’s Court delivered a narrative conclusion of death from natural causes, sharply criticizing the absence of a management plan, inadequate record-keeping, and failure to communicate the life-threatening nature of his condition . In the aftermath, tributes poured in from teammates, coaches, and supporters acknowledging Williams’s dedication, work ethic, and intellect as an Oxford graduate. His sister Helen established The Ian Williams Foundation in partnership with Cardiac Risk in the Young to champion mandatory cardiac screening for athletes at all levels—a legacy aimed at preventing similar tragedies . Williams is remembered not only for his talent as a tight-head prop and academic achievements but also for the outpouring of awareness and reforms his passing inspired within professional sport .

Steven Folkes

Steven John Folkes was born on 30 January 1959 in Sydney, New South Wales, and rose to prominence as a formidable back-rower for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, making 245 first-grade appearances between 1978 and 1991 and scoring 45 tries in his initial stint before a brief spell with Hull FC and a final return to the Bulldogs in 1991 . As a player, Folkes was integral to four premiership victories in the 1980s—1980, 1984, 1985, and 1988—and featured in six Grand Finals overall, earning selection for New South Wales in nine State of Origin matches and representing Australia in five Tests between 1986 and 1988 . Renowned for his work ethic, leadership, and durability, he captained his junior club at Punchbowl Boys’ High School before establishing himself as a stalwart of the Bulldogs’ famed “Entertainers” era . Following retirement, Folkes transitioned seamlessly into coaching and support roles: he served as reserve-grade coach before taking over as head coach of Canterbury-Bankstown from 1998 to 2008, guiding the club to the 2004 NRL premiership with a memorable 16–13 Grand Final victory over the Sydney Roosters, and earning Dally M Coach of the Year honors that season . His overall coaching record with the Bulldogs included 162 wins from 288 games, a testament to his tactical acumen and motivational skills . After departing Canterbury, he applied his strength and conditioning expertise to roles with the West Indies cricket team and NRL clubs such as Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra Dragons before being appointed head coach of the Australia women’s national rugby league team in 2014 . Folkes was married to Karen Moore, daughter of Bulldogs luminary Peter Moore; she predeceased him in 2013 after a battle with cancer . On 27 February 2018, at age 59, Folkes tragically passed away at his home in Sydney from a suspected heart attack while training, leaving the rugby league community in mourning . Post-mortem examination revealed he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, underscoring concerns about long-term impacts of repeated head injuries in contact sports . Remembered as a club legend both on and off the field, his legacy endures through the Bulldogs’ culture of resilience, the players he mentored, and his contributions to the broader rugby league landscape.

Graeme Langlands

Graeme Frank Langlands MBE was an Australian professional rugby league footballer and coach whose illustrious career spanned from the late 1950s to the mid-1970s, and whose influence on the sport remains profound. Born in Wollongong, New South Wales, Langlands overcame a challenging childhood to emerge as one of the greatest fullbacks the game has seen, earning the affectionate nickname “Changa” for his agility and spirited play . After a brief stint in the Wollongong competition, he joined the St. George Dragons in 1963, where his graceful running style, trademark sidestep off either foot, and reliable goal-kicking quickly made him indispensable; he led the club’s point-scoring charts nine times, compiling 86 tries and 648 goals in 227 first-grade matches, and helped sustain the Dragons’ dominance in the years following their record 11-year premiership run . Internationally, Langlands debuted for Australia in 1963 and went on to earn 45 caps through to 1975, retiring as the then most-capped Kangaroo; he captained his country to series triumphs and was pivotal in the 1972 Rugby League World Cup campaign, where his tactical savvy and composure under pressure shone, including his involvement in what is often called “the greatest try never scored” in the final . Equally adept at centre, he combined physical courage with football intelligence, earning respect across rugby league circles for his humility and leadership both on and off the field . Following his playing days, he coached St. George and representative sides with commendable results, though later life was marked by health challenges that limited his public profile . In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed MBE and in 1981 was immortalized as one of Rugby League’s “Immortals,” a testament to his lasting legacy . After a prolonged battle with chronic illness, Langlands passed away on 20 January 2018 at age 76, prompting widespread tributes at a funeral attended by hundreds of figures from across the sport; eulogies highlighted not only his extraordinary achievements and flair, but also his loyalty, integrity and the inspiration he provided to generations of players and fans alike.

Lance Thompson

Lance Thompson (born 16 February 1978 in Sydney, New South Wales) was an Australian professional rugby league footballer whose tenacious, wholehearted style made him a fan favourite and respected teammate throughout the 1990s and 2000s. He debuted as a teenager for the St George Dragons in 1995 and featured in the 1996 Grand Final, later playing a key role in St George Illawarra’s dramatic 1999 decider appearance, accumulating 201 first-grade games for the Dragons franchise between 1995 and 2005 and contributing 24 tries and goals over that period . Thompson then moved to the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks for the 2006–2008 seasons, adding 38 appearances before recurring knee issues prompted his retirement in 2008 . A two-time Australian Schoolboys representative and five-time NSW City Origin player (2001–2007), he was often on the cusp of State of Origin selection, renowned for his work ethic, defensive grit, and leadership on and off the field . After retirement, Thompson remained involved in the game as coach of Cronulla’s reserve-grade side in the New South Wales Cup and managed the thriving bistro at Woolooware Golf Club, reflecting his commitment to community and mentoring younger players . On the evening of 23 August 2018 he was found unresponsive at a property in Cronulla; police indicated there was no suspicious circumstance or evidence of self-harm, and initial indications pointed to a medical episode leading to his unexpected passing at age 40 . His death left a profound void in the rugby league community: Thompson was a devoted son to Brian and Joan, a beloved husband, and father to daughter Shalisse and twins Lachlan and Laylah, with teammates, coaches, and fans rallying to support his young family through fundraisers and tributes at venues across Sydney . Tributes from NRL leadership, former teammates, and rivals alike celebrated “Thommo” as a fierce competitor with a soft underbelly, highlighting the respect he earned through humility, resilience, and loyalty; more than 400 friends, family, and colleagues gathered at a tribute luncheon to honour his legacy, underscoring the lasting impact of his character and contributions to the sport . His career—and the outpouring of support following his death—illustrate how Thompson embodied rugby league’s spirit of camaraderie, toughness, and community, ensuring he is remembered not only for on-field achievements but for the humanity and solidarity he inspired throughout his life.

Terry Mackenroth

Former Queensland politician Terence Michael “Terry” Mackenroth, born 16 July 1949, enjoyed a distinguished political career spanning nearly three decades before his retirement in 2005 and passed away on 30 April 2018 at the age of 68 after a brief but aggressive battle with a lung tumour discovered during treatment for pneumonia . Known affectionately and sometimes reverently as “The Fox” for his political acumen and tactical prowess, Mackenroth was first elected to the Queensland Legislative Assembly representing the seat of Chatsworth in November 1977, retaining it until his resignation in July 2005 . During this tenure, he held numerous ministerial portfolios under the Wayne Goss and Peter Beattie governments, including Police and Emergency Services, Housing and Local Government, and Communications and Information; he was appointed Leader of the House in two separate periods (1989–1991 and 1992–1996) and later served as Deputy Premier from November 2000 to July 2005 as well as Treasurer of Queensland from February 2001 to July 2005 . He was widely respected for his role in navigating the Beattie administration through challenging times and for his reputation as a loyal, formidable parliamentarian who combined strategic insight with a commitment to public service . Prior to politics, Mackenroth had been a skilled welder and steel fabrication business owner, reflecting a working-class background that informed his political ethos; after leaving parliament, he continued to contribute to public life through roles such as director of Devine Limited, involvement in cyclone recovery efforts, and leadership positions within rugby league administration . In April 2018, having survived a lung cancer diagnosis two decades earlier, he was hospitalized with pneumonia at Brisbane’s Mater Private Hospital, where physicians discovered a new, aggressive lung tumour; despite his well-known fighting spirit and optimism for a positive outcome, his health declined rapidly, and his family announced he had succumbed to the illness on 30 April 2018 . Remembered by colleagues as decent, honorable, witty, and humble, as well as devoted to his wife Mary, daughters Rachel and Jessica, and grandchildren, Mackenroth was honored with a state funeral that allowed the community he served to pay tribute to his legacy as a stalwart of Queensland’s Labor movement and a “master and commander” of the parliamentary chamber .

Louis Fajfrowski 

Louis Fajfrowski was a promising young French rugby union winger whose untimely death in August 2018 at the age of 21 sent shockwaves through the rugby community and reignited debates about safety in contact sports. Born in Abidjan to a French father of Polish descent and an Ivorian mother, Fajfrowski progressed through the youth ranks at Montpellier HR before joining Pro D2 side Stade Aurillacois in 2015, making 23 appearances and scoring five points during his brief professional tenure . On 10 August 2018, during a home friendly against Stade Rodez, he was involved in a heavy chest tackle and, although he left the field under his own power with medical assistance, he collapsed repeatedly in the changing room and could not be resuscitated, passing away later that evening . Initial autopsy results were inconclusive, but a subsequent judicial inquiry concluded his death was accidental, attributing it to “lethal fibrillation” triggered by precordial chest trauma consistent with commotio cordis, where a blunt impact to the chest at a vulnerable point in the cardiac cycle induces fatal arrhythmia . His passing intensified scrutiny of rugby’s collision risks, joining other tragic cases in France involving young athletes succumbing to blunt-force injuries, and prompting calls from players, medical professionals, and governing bodies to enhance preventive measures, including improved concussion protocols, chest protection research, and heightened vigilance for undiagnosed cardiac conditions . Although rare, the phenomenon of commotio cordis illustrated that even brief, non-penetrating impacts could have catastrophic outcomes in sport, underscoring the need for ongoing education of coaches, referees, and medical staff about early warning signs and emergency response procedures. In the wake of Fajfrowski’s death, his club and national rugby authorities reviewed training and matchday protocols, while memorial events and tributes honored his potential and humanized the broader imperative of safeguarding player welfare. His story remains a sobering reminder that despite rugby’s cultural resonance and athletic appeal, vigilance, research investment, and a holistic approach to player health are essential to minimize the slim but devastating chance of fatal incidents on the field.

Benkato Kato

Benkato “Kato” Ottio was a highly promising Papua New Guinean athlete whose trajectory from island life to the international rugby league stage was as remarkable as it was brief. Born and raised in the village of Tatana near Port Moresby, Ottio first distinguished himself not on the rugby field, but as a volleyballer, representing Papua New Guinea at the 2013 Pacific Mini Games in Wallis and Futuna, where his squad captured gold, and competing in the 2014 Asian Men’s Club Volleyball Championship in the Philippines . Transitioning to rugby league exclusively thereafter, he played at amateur level for the Dobo Warriors before earning selection for the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII in October 2014. His performances secured a contract with the Papua New Guinea Hunters in the Queensland Cup in 2015, where he made 22 appearances and scored six tries, quickly marking himself out as a dynamic centre/wing/second-rower with an imposing 194 cm, 102 kg frame . Ottio debuted for the Kumuls (national side) in May 2015 against Fiji, and after a year’s club success, signed a two-year deal with the NRL’s Canberra Raiders in February 2016, spending his time with their feeder side, the Mount Pritchard Mounties. He finished the 2016 NSW Cup season as the competition’s leading tryscorer with 29 tries in 23 games and was named on the wing in the NSW Cup Team of the Year . Despite a long-term injury ruling him out of PNG’s May 2017 Pacific Test, he returned in time for selection in the Papua New Guinea squad for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, playing all three group games in Port Moresby and scoring against Wales before the team’s quarter-final exit to England . In December 2017, he secured a move to England, signing with the Super League club Widnes Vikings, and was due to travel in January 2018 to begin pre-season preparations. Tragically, while training with the PNG Hunters on 7 January 2018 in Port Moresby, Ottio collapsed, suffering severe heat stroke and internal bleeding, and died in the early hours of 9 January at age 23—just days before he was to depart for the UK . His sudden passing sent shockwaves through both the PNG rugby league community and the broader sporting world; his funeral on 12 January at Sir John Guise Indoor Complex was attended by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and underscored the national grief at losing such a bright talent with a promising career still unfolding . Despite his brief life, Ottio’s journey from volleyball gold-medallist to Rugby League World Cup competitor and his rapid rise through domestic and international ranks ensure his memory endures as an inspiration to PNG athletes and rugby league fans alike.

Darrell Eastlake

Darrell Eastlake (born 11 July 1942 – died 19 April 2018) was a distinguished Australian radio and television presenter whose larger-than-life commentary style left an indelible mark on sports broadcasting over a career spanning more than four decades . Prior to his media work, he held a variety of roles including as a Qantas baggage handler and surfboard maker before breaking into radio in the 1960s with surf reports on Sydney’s 2UW, which laid the foundation for his transition into television commentary on NBN-3 Newcastle and later the Nine Network from 1982 onward . Renowned for his booming, excitable delivery, Eastlake became synonymous with marquee events such as State of Origin rugby league, Commonwealth Games coverage, Grand Prix motorcycle racing, Formula One, weightlifting and more, often partnering with legendary figures like Barry Sheene, Alan Jones and Jack Gibson to bring audiences to the “threshold of pain” with his signature enthusiastic calls . His willingness to inject theatre into sports commentary revolutionized how Australians experienced live events, making even the most technical or niche sports accessible and thrilling for a broad audience . In 1993, while commentating at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, he suffered a heart attack yet continued to embody resilience by returning to media until his retirement in 2005 . After retirement, Eastlake’s health declined; in 2010 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and emphysema attributed to years of heavy smoking . He spent his final years in a nursing home on the New South Wales Central Coast where he passed away on 19 April 2018 at the age of 75, with his wife Julie by his side; his death prompted widespread tributes from colleagues, athletes and broadcasters who remembered him as a passionate storyteller who forever shaped Australian sports media . His legacy endures in the way excitement and authenticity remain prized in sports coverage, and his memorable calls continue to be celebrated by fans and professionals alike.