Former Blues, Crusaders and Hurricanes player Billy Guyton has died at the age of 33, leaving the world of New Zealand rugby in shock and mourning.
Guyton, who played as a halfback, was forced to retire in 2018, when he was only 28, because of ongoing concussion symptoms. The Timaru-born star also represented the Maori All Blacks, Tasman and North Otago during his respected career, and was recently working as an assistant coach for the Tasman women's team in the Farah Palmer Cup.
The cause of his death has not yet been revealed. Tasman Rugby, a team which Guyton represented 52 times, confirmed the news in a post on social media, saying: "It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton. Billy was a much-loved member of our whole Tasman Rugby Union team and had a positive impact on those he played alongside and coached.
"Billy has been a major contributor to the development of women's rugby across our Tasman region. Our condolences and aroha are extended to Billy's whaanau, friends and colleagues during this sad time."
The Blues said in a statement of their own: "We are shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Billy Guyton. He was a talented rugby player, who made 24 appearances for the Blues between 2016-2017. We cannot imagine the heartache his family and friends must be feeling at this difficult time. To everyone who knew Billy, we send them our sincere sympathy."
Super Rugby also paid tribute on their Twitter account. "It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton," they wrote. "Billy was a much-loved member of the Blues from 2016-17, as well as playing for the Crusader and Hurricanes. Our condolences and aroha are extended to Billy's whanau, friends and colleagues during this sad time."
Guyton began his provincial rugby career in North Otago before moving to Tasman. Following brief spells with the Crusaders and the Hurricanes, whom he made one appearance for each, the halfback found success with the Blues.
In 2016, Guyton was called up by the Maori All Blacks for their tour of the northern hemisphere, where he'd earn a start against Irish club Munster. He also made an appearance as a substitute against English side Harlequins. Two years later, Guyton's career was ended prematurely due to symptoms of concussion.
