Diss Rugby Club release statement after Arturas Rudys dies after collision during match against Wisbech

Diss rugby club have today released a statement regarding the death of Wisbech player, Arturas Rudys, who collapsed on the pitch when the two sides met in Cambridgeshire on Saturday.

The East of England Ambulance Service said the 27-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest after a collision with a Diss player.

A statement from club chair, Andy Jermy, said: “Our friends at Wisbech Rugby Club have suffered the most awful loss.

“Players, coaches, supporters and Officials from both clubs who were present at the match have been greatly affected.

“Arturas Rudys died playing the game we all love and the rugby family has come together in their support for Wisbech RFC and we have felt that care at our club also.

“The RFU (Rugby Football Union) injured players foundation are providing players from both clubs with professional assistance. We are immensely proud of the actions of two of our players and our physio who went to the aid of Arturas.

“Players, officials and supporters from both clubs formed an incredible bond during the difficult hours together and we will continue to aid each other.

“Our main concern is for Jolita, the partner of Arturas and their child. We will be raising funds for them at our earliest opportunity.”

With advice and guidance from RFU injured players foundation, a decision will be made later this week as to whether Saturday’s home match against West Norfolk will go ahead.

A donation page has been set up by Rudys’ girlfriend, and mother of their two-year-old child, which can be found here.

Meanwhile, another Eastern Counties club, who lost a player during a game, Thurston, have also released a statement paying their condolences.

Walsham-le-Willows resident, Josh Gilbert, lost his life while playing for Thurston in a match at Hadleigh in 2017.