.png)
6 months ago
46
A 33-year-old father of three has died surrounded by his loved ones just hours after suffering a severe brain injury in a head knock sustained during a game of rugby in New Zealand.
Cory Heather was playing for the Beachlands Maraetai Club in Auckland on Saturday when he reportedly took a knee to the head that left him unconscious.
A rescue chopper was called to the scene at Te Puru Park on the city's eastern outskirts and he was flown to Auckland City Hospital in critical condition.
Heather's mother Donna, partner Rachel Hurcombe and their three young children were watching the game.
Cory Heather (pictured with partner Rachel Hurcombe) died on Sunday after a horrific accident during a game of rugby in Auckland
The 33-year-old had three children with his partner, all of whom are aged five or under
Heather has been remembered as a 'much-loved' partner and member of his rugby club, as well as a 'hands-on' father
His family agreed to turn off his life support on Sunday.
A fundraising page was set up to help the family and it had raised more than $36,000 at the time of writing.
'Surrounded by his family and friends, Cory sadly passed away on Sunday morning,' a message on the page read.
'A much-loved partner to Rachel, hands on father to his three children Stevie (5), Benji (4) and Louie (1), and a cherished friend to so many.
'A bright spark who lead an exceptional life and will be so dearly missed.
'We love you forever, fly high Cory.'
His mother, partner and children were watching the match when the tragedy unfolded
Heather was playing for the Beachlands Maraetai club (pictured) when a knee to the head reportedly knocked him unconscious
The match Heather was playing in was weight-restricted, with no player over 85kg allowed to compete.
'Cory was a much-loved member of the Senior Under 85kg team, the Club and wider community,' Beachlands president James Gemmell said in a statement.
'The club is heartbroken by Cory’s passing. His family, friends and teammates, all have our love and support.
'We understand the accident will have been traumatic for many involved, including the opposition, match officials and spectators.'
Away from rugby, Heather was a builder and a director of the Woodstar Construction business.
New Zealand Rugby Union CEO Mark Robinson shared the organisation's 'deepest condolences' to Heather's family after learning of the shocking news.
'Please know that all of New Zealand Rugby is with you,' Robinson said in a statement.
English (US)