15 October 2023 , 16:42
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A rugby player has collapsed and died after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch during a match this weekend.
The player, named locally as Arturas Rudys was playing in an Eastern Counties First Division game against Diss on Saturday afternoon for Wisbech when he took a heavy tackle. The 27-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest and, despite the efforts of paramedics, could not be resuscitated and passed away, with officials abandoning the match out of respect.
His girlfriend Jolita has since launched a GoFundMe page which has already raised more than £6,500 from kindhearted donors. She wrote: “My name is Jolita, I’m the girlfriend of Arturas Rudys. We have been together 4 years, also we have a little child - Emilijus. He is only 2-years old. My partner just passed away on the rugby competition in Wisbech. It’s been very quickly and like in a dream.
“It’s very very hard time for us right now.. I can't give up, I have to live and show the right path to the our child. I have never asked for money yet, but I want to reach out to you and ask for help.”
Wisbech Rugby Club also paid tribute to the young player, writing on their website: “It is with great sadness the Club announces the death of Arturas Rudys during a match played on Saturday 14th October. Arturas, aged 27, was a hugely valued and respected member of our Club who began his time at Wisbech RFC in 2013. Wisbech RFC thanks everyone who helped Arturas in his immediate moments of need yesterday including, club first aiders, teammates, and Diss RFC. The Club also wishes to thank the emergency services and first responders who attended the scene.
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"As a club we are in touch with Arturas’ family to offer our heartfelt sympathies and support. In whatever you are doing today, please pause for a moment to think of Arturas, his family, loved ones and friends, both in the UK and in his native Lithuania.
"The numerous messages of support we have received from the rugby family, the local community and beyond are greatly appreciated. We know this is a very difficult time for the player’s family, friends, teammates, and the wider club community, but all can be assured of our full support. As a mark of respect, Wisbech RFC has cancelled all rugby activities in the coming days."
An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson added: "Two ambulances, an ambulance officer and the air ambulance responded to calls a person had collapsed during a match at Wisbech Rugby Club on Saturday afternoon, alongside colleagues from the Fire and Rescue service. The patient, a male in his 20s, was in cardiac arrest and responders carried out CPR, including using a defibrillator. Sadly, despite the efforts of paramedics, the patient could not be resuscitated, and our thoughts are with their family and friends at this tragic time.”