A RUGBY community has been left “devastated” by the sudden loss of a “brilliant” young man and team mate, who “lived for his sport”.
Logan Holgate, 18, who played for Hensingham ARLC in the open age and Under 18s, passed away suddenly on Wednesday.
The popular young rugby player was also a part of the England Community Lions squad which defeated France to win the Under 19 European Championships in Italy last year.
The former St Benedict’s School pupil was studying an electrical apprenticeship with Sellafield Ltd and training at Gen2.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise money for Logan’s family and is now close to £20,000.
Floral tributes have been laid along with a rugby shirt bearing the number seven - which was Logan's shirt number - at the gates of Hensingham ARLFC.
A statement released by the club said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of one our lads, Logan Holgate today.
“Logan has been with the club since he was young and has been playing for our open age and under 18s this year.
“We would like to place on record our condolences to the family and friends.
“We are all devastated at the news and will continue to support the family as much as we can.
“RIP Logan.”
A statement from the England Community Lions said: “Everyone connected with the England Community Lions Programme was saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Logan Holgate on Wednesday 11th January.
“The talented hooker, who played with distinction for Hensingham, including in the melting pot of the National Conference last season, followed the family tradition in represent the Lions, hot on the heels of big brother Ellison and younger brother Fletcher.
“Logan first caught attention in 2021 and made his Lions debut for the Under 16s in a victory over Wales at Colwyn Bay. Such was his burgeoning club form, that it wasn't long before he was firmly in the plans of the Under 19s selectors, firstly impressing in trials, before making the final touring squad that created history in Italy last September.
“Whilst in Italy, he was a virtual ever present during the exhausting six game qualifying day, impressing team mates and staff alike with his work ethic, infectious attitude and quick humour. He then played superbly in the Semi Final and again in the Final as the Lions swept aside Wales before defeating France to win the Under 19 European Championships for the first time in dramatic and emotional scenes.
“He leaves a lasting legacy on the programme and staff - a brilliant young man and team mate.
“All our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this devastating time.”
A statement from St Benedict’s School said: “The whole school community at St Benedict's are devastated by the sudden death of former pupil Logan Holgate.
“Logan was a popular student who lived for his sport. He represented the school at the highest levels and always with his amazing sense of humour. We are proud that he wore our uniform.
“All our thoughts are with Lisa, Ellison, Fletcher, Miller and the rest of the family at this sad time.”
A joint tribute from Gen2 and Sellafield Ltd said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Logan. He was a dedicated student, studying an electrical apprenticeship, and was an extremely popular young man. He will be greatly missed by his Gen2 tutors, fellow apprentices and the Sellafield Apprenticeship Team who worked with him on a daily basis.
“All of us at Sellafield Ltd and Gen2 send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time, and we are offering support to colleagues who are affected by this tragic event."
READ MORE: Tributes to Hensingham and England Community Lions star Logan Holgate
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