A rugby team released balloons in a touching remembrance of a talented player who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 15. On Saturday afternoon, dozens of athletes and fans gathered at Pyle RFC to honor Joseph Gardiner.
The manager of Pyle RFC, Matthew Chick, referred to Joseph as “born to lead and well-loved by his teammates” after he passed away on July 31 after being brought to the hospital with a viral illness. Joseph was the player of the year the previous year, a superb eight or center who was set to serve as captain this time around. Additionally, he was scheduled for a tryout with the Boys’ Club of Wales.
I really believe his name would have been on our senior captains board, Matthew told WalesOnline. He was a gentleman who had been working with us since he was 10 and kept improving.
Before a friendly match between Pyle and Caldicot, the minute of silence and balloon release took place, but players and representatives from other teams, like as Tondu, Pencoed, and Cefn Cribwr, also braved the weather to pay their respects. Many of the balloons were decorated in the Pyle jersey’s blue and white colors, and one was shaped like an eight to represent Joseph’s position. We can’t express our gratitude to the rugby community enough for the support and words, added Matthew, who noted that commemorative jerseys had been received from teams “far and wide.”
Rory Bodenham, head coach of the under-16s, praised Joseph’s excellent attitude and punctuality. Joseph never missed a training session. He was “a very talented rugby player and a very good motivator on the field,” the source continued. “He was hard-running, strong, and he had good footwork.” He enjoyed huge popularity both on and off the field.
Recently appointed under-16s manager and close friend of Joseph’s family, Martin Jones, had been looking forward to working with Joseph. Joe was a fantastic child, and we adored him to the moon and back, he added. His unexpected demise surprised us a lot.
According to him, Joseph felt at ease playing as a striker or a back because of his talent and desire to support the team. Martin said, “If the club asked him to play a position, he would give it his all.” He was a significant asset in each game he participated in.
£10,577 has been received through a GoFundMe effort to assist Joseph’s family with funeral expenses. You may give money here.
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