Tributes have been paid to the first team assistant coach of Leigh Miners Rangers who passed away suddenly while in Italy. Gary McMahon, from Wigan, was on England Community Lions duties abroad.
Gary had joined the Miners rugby team at the beginning of 2022 following his work with Wigan St Judes. The 56-year-old had been over in Italy working with with the England Community Lions when he died.
The team has paid tribute to him following his death, saying he was 'pivotal' in their development both on and off the field since joining. Community Lions under-19s said they were 'devastated' but decided to continue their European Championship campaign after consulting with Gary's family.
In a statement, Leigh Miners Rangers said: "A superb character around the club who will be sadly missed by all, we send our love and condolences to Gary’s partner Lisa, son Gary, daughter Skye, and Gary’s family and friends at this very sad time.
"The club would also send their condolences to all the England Community Lions u19s players and staff who are currently in Italy competing in the European Championships. RIP Gary McMahon x"
A post from England Lions RL added: "Everyone in the England Community Lions Under 19s camp was devastated yesterday following the sudden passing of popular assistant coach Gary McMahon. As a mark of respect, we requested time to consider our position in the competition.
"Following consultation with his family, all players and staff out in Italy; the Lions can now confirm that they will continue their European Championship campaign."
Marc Lovering, RFL Director of Participation and Development added: "We only felt it right to ask and respect the wishes of Gary's family, and wanted to discuss things with our squad and staff here. Gary was an extremely valuable member of the Lions programme and very proud to represent everything that we stood for.
"We want to continue, Gary would have wanted us to continue and the consensus of everyone is to continue in the competition. We look forward to facing Wales tomorrow in our semi-final."
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