Talented rugby player, 17, took own life after worrying he didn't have a job

25 April 2023 , 08:59

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Talented rugby player Logan Luker aged just 17 has died (Image: Wales News Service)

A young rugby player found dead in his bedroom by his devastated mum was worried about not having secured a job.

Logan Luker, 17, who "gave his heart and soul" to the game, took his own life had been feeling down in the weeks leading up to his death on November 1, 2021, an inquest heard.

The teenager, of Tonypandy in Wales, had enjoyed a happy childhood and had no previous mental health concerns.

Logan, a youth captain at Penygraig RFC, was treated by paramedics at his home before he was declared dead at the scene.

It was discovered he had written notes in a notebook expressing worry and a desire end his life at some stage.

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Logan, a youth captain at Penygraig RFC, was treated by paramedics at his home before he was declared dead at the scene

Coroner Patricia Morgan said there was "no evidence of third party involvement" and said "it is likely that Logan intended to bring about the end of his own life".

She recorded a conclusion of suicide.

The day after Mr Luker's death his family described him as a "special person" in a statement, Wales Online reports.

Tributes to Logan Luker, Penygraig rugby club following his death on November 1, 2021 (Rob Browne)

They said: "He was the best son and brother and we loved him so much. He was a true young gentleman who tried to make everyone smile. Please, please if anyone is struggling – please speak out because we as a family are broken and we wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what we are."

The Valleys rugby community was left shaken following his sudden death. Paying tribute, Penygraig RFC said it was "devastated" to lose its "beloved youth captain Logan Luker".

Paying tribute, Penygraig RFC said it was "devastated" to lose its "beloved youth captain Logan Luker" (Rob Browne)

A statement from the club read: "Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who played alongside him.

"Logan was a well-liked and highly-respected young rugby player.

"The tragic news of his passing comes as a huge shock to everyone who knows him.

Logan has been described as 'fearless' and a 'talented' rugby player (Rob Browne)

"Logan was a very talented player who gave his heart and soul to playing rugby.

"He was fearless on the field, would run at anything in his way, and would always get back up be ready to go again at any stage of the game.

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"Penygraig RFC will not be the same without him.

"The tributes being laid at the gates of the club only go to show the esteem in which he was held."

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Reem Ahmed