UWE rugby player dies from an injury
20-year-old Maddy Lawrence passed away on Friday.
Last updated 29th Mar 2022
Tributes have been paid to a university rugby player who has died after being injured during a match.
Maddy Lawrence was playing for the University of the West of England (UWE) women's second team against the University of Bristol when she was injured while being tackled on March 7.
The 20-year-old winger, known as Twinkle Toes, was taken to hospital but died on March 25.
Her club has written a statement:
"Maddy 'Twinkle toes' Lawrence who sadly left us too soon on the 25th March. Maddy exemplified what it means to be a UWE Women's Rugby Player, 'tackling' every new skill with enthusiasm. She proudly represented our club both on and off the rugby pitch, growing into the sport and our rugby family.
Maddy was a bubbly girl who was so fun to be around. Whenever she smiled and laughed you couldn't help but smile and laugh with her. That was the sort of player, friend, sister and daughter Maddy was.
Her everlasting energy has left its mark on this club, she will forever be our number 11 and will forever be our friend.
We will be retiring the number 11 shirt in Maddy's honour and remembrance.
Rest in peace our beautiful girl."
Tributes have been paid from across the rugby world. The Rugby Football Union has offered their heartfelt sympathies.
Tomorrow a fundraiser will be taking place in honour of Maddy.
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