Huddersfield Giants have announced that academy player Ronan Costello has died, aged 17.
Ronan was critically injured during the club’s academy game with Salford on Saturday and was being treated at Leeds General Infirmary.
A statement issued by the Costello family on the club’s official website said:
“We are absolutely devastated to lose Ronan so tragically and suddenly. Ronan was a loving and caring 17 year old lad who was dedicated to his family and friends. He was a credit to all of his family and we are so proud of him and his achievements.
“He was passionate about rugby and rugby was a big part of his life. We acknowledge that this was a tragic accident. As a family, we wish to extend our appreciation to Leeds General Infirmary’s Neuro Intensive Care Unit for their dedication, respect and efforts in caring for Ronan and to The Giants, especially Andy and Richard who have been a great support to us all during such a difficult time. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us but we now need some privacy and time to grieve.
“We are all truly heartbroken and Ronan will be missed and forever in our hearts.”
The club are collating all messages, cards and tweets that they receive to pass to the family at the appropriate time.
