West Norfolk Rugby club backs fundraising page after Wisbech player dies on the pitch
Members of West Norfolk Rugby Club have urged supporters to get behind a fundraising campaign to help the family of a 27-year-old who died on the field of play.
Young dad Arturas Rudys suffered a cardiac arrest after colliding with an opposition player as his Wisbech side hosted Diss on Saturday.
Arturas had a two-year-old son Emilijus with his girlfriend of four years Jolita Kiseliovaite, who has launched the page, which has raised £19,694 in three days.
A statement from West Norfolk Rugby Club reads: “The club was shocked and saddened to hear of the devastating passing of Arturas Rudys during the game between Wisbech and Diss last week.
“Our sincere condolences go out to all those involved, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, players, local community and members of Wisbech Rugby Club.
“We are supporting a GoFundMe page set up to support Arturas' family during this difficult time and ask everyone to donate if possible as every contribution, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference.”
On the GoFundMe page, heartbroken Jolita says: “It’s a very, very hard time for us right now. I can't give up, I have to live and show the right path to our child.”
A Wisbech rugby shirt has been attached to a tree at the ground, with a note pinned to it reading: “Arturas, our teammate, our brother, our 14 forever.”
A statement from Wisbech Rugby Club on Sunday read: “It is with great sadness that the club announces the death of Arturas Rudys during a match played on Saturday, October 14.
“Arturas, aged 27, was a hugely valued and respected member of our club who began his time at Wisbech RFC in 2013.
“Wisbech RFC thanks everyone who helped Arturas in his immediate moments of need yesterday including club First Aiders, teammates and Diss RFC. The club also wishes to thank the emergency services and first responders who attended the scene.
“As a club we are in touch with Arturas’ family to offer our heartfelt sympathies and support. In whatever you are doing today, please pause for a moment to think of Arturas, his family, loved ones and friends, both in the UK and in his native Lithuania.”
