Tributes are pouring in for a young Salford Red Devils rugby player who died suddenly. Logan Holgate was on the under-18s pathway at the Salford rugby league club and had been selected for the England Community Lions under-19s last year.
The 18-year-old, from Cumbria, had been playing for Whitheaven-based Hensingham ARLC alongside the the Salford Red Devils pathway. He died 'suddenly' on Wednesday (January 11), the Rugby Football League (RFL) announced.
A spokesperson for Salford Red Devils wrote on Twitter: "Everyone at Salford Red Devils are saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Logan Holgate. Logan played for our U18s pathway alongside @hensingham_arl and was set to move up to the reserve team this season.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at such a sad time." The RFL also paid tribute to the 'talented' young player, following his time with the England Community Lions.
A spokesperson for the RFL said: "Everyone connected with the England Community Lions Programme was saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Logan Holgate on Wednesday 11th January. The talented hooker, who played with distinction for Hensingham, including in the melting pot of the National Conference last season, followed the family tradition in represent the Lions, hot on the heels of big brother Ellison and younger brother Fletcher.
"Logan first caught attention in 2021 and made his Lions debut for the Under 16s in a victory over Wales at Colwyn Bay. Such was his burgeoning club form, that it wasn't long before he was firmly in the plans of the Under 19s selectors, firstly impressing in trials, before making the final touring squad that created history in Italy last September.
"Whilst in Italy, he was a virtual ever present during the exhausting six game qualifying day, impressing team mates and staff alike with his work ethic, infectious attitude and quick humour. He then played superbly in the Semi Final and again in the Final as the Lions swept aside Wales before defeating France to win the Under 19 European Championships for the first time in dramatic and emotional scenes.
"He leaves a lasting legacy on the programme and staff - a brilliant young man and team mate. All our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this devastating time."
Rugby clubs in Logan's home county have also paid tribute to a teenager who was 'taken far too early', Lancs Live reports. Hensignham ARLFC said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of one our lads, Logan Holgate today.
“Logan has been with the club since he was young and has been playing for our open age and under 18’s this year. We would like to place on record our condolences to the family and friends.
“We are all devastated at the news and will continue to support the family as much as we can. RIP Logan.”
A statement from Kells ARLFC said: “It is with great sadness and shock to everyone at Kells ARLFC to hear the sad news of the passing such a great young man, player and a friend to many at Kells. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Logan's family and everyone at Hensingham ARLFC. A great friend to many, RIP Logan, you will be missed.”
Ashley Kilpatrick, director at Championship side Whitehaven Rugby League, added: “Upon hearing this heartbreaking and terrible news, I can only offer my heartfelt condolences to Ellison, Fletcher and family, as well as the Hensingham club. If we at Whitehaven can help in any way, we are here for anyone affected.
"I never personally got to see Logan play but I was told he was a star of the future. This is backed up by Logan’s England community lions call up.
“I sat down with Logan late last year when Logan agreed to come down and do some pre-season sessions with us. I could tell from speaking to Logan he was a pleasant lad and was switched on.
“I know the whole rugby community in Cumbria and further afield will rally round and help in any way they can. RIP young man.”
A GoFundMe has also been set up to try and raise money to support Logan's family. To donate to the fundraiser click here.
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