Henley Rugby Club has set up a GoFundMe campaign for the family of David Hyde who died suddenly after a match last weekend aged 29.
The appeal reads: “We are Henley Rugby Club and have tragically lost one of our own.
“Dave Hyde, the Hawks second-row passed away last Saturday (September 4th) following our game against Old Albanian. He was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital where he died later that evening.
“A gentle giant and strong family man, he joined Henley from fellow Oxfordshire side Witney in 2016 and quickly became a mainstay in the Hawks pack.
“He was a destructive ball carrier, who possessed the innate ability to offload out of contact with opposition players left trailing behind him.
“One of the first names on the teamsheet, Dave was a team man first and foremost, he played the game for the team and for the men that took the field with him.
“He epitomised loyalty, friendship, trust and sacrifice, all the qualities that made him a true asset to Henley as a player, but more importantly a true friend, brother, son, husband and father.”
The club says it is now raising money to help support his wife, Katherine and son Tore as they look to re-build their lives.
It adds: “If you are able to donate anything, regardless of the amount, we will be incredibly grateful.”
To view the GoFundMe, please visit: https://gf.me/v/c/p7q9/david-hyde-fund
