Dominic Peterson, a 19-year-old rugby player at Saint Mary's College in California, has died after suffering a medical emergency during a training run. Peterson was running in Moraga on Friday when he experienced a "medical crisis," according to a letter from the school's president, Roger Thompson. He was rushed to a local hospital but later passed away. The nature of the medical emergency has not been disclosed.
Emergency response and tributes
The Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District confirmed to local media that they responded to the incident but did not provide additional details. Peterson's rugby team, the Saint Mary's Gaels, announced his death on Saturday night, paying tribute in a social media post.
"Dominic's smile was contagious and one that would brighten a room when he entered," the team said. "He always gave 100% effort and encouraged those around him to do the same. Dominic will be in our hearts forever."
Memorial service and community support
A memorial service was held on Saturday morning at the Saint Mary's College Chapel, according to reports in the US. Other sporting programs at the school also paid tribute. The Saint Mary's men's basketball program said it was mourning alongside the rugby team.
"We are a family," the basketball team said. "When one of us hurts, we all hurt." They added that they "stand together" with Peterson's rugby teammates as they cope with the "unimaginable loss."
Rugby career and legacy
The College Rugby Association of America also paid tribute. Executive director Paul Keeler said the organisation was mourning along with Peterson's family, teammates, coaches, and classmates. "The loss of a young man and teammate in circumstances like these is difficult to comprehend," Keeler said. "Rugby has always been more than a game."
Peterson had also played for the California Grizzlies, having captained their U19s boys squad during international rugby tours to both Japan and Argentina. "Captain. Teammate. Friend," the club wrote in a tribute. "We have lost one of our leaders, and we are heartbroken. A true leader, Dom will be remembered with pride, gratitude, and love. The journeys we shared and the friendships formed along the way will always be part of his legacy. Rugby has always been more than a game. It gives us a place to belong and friendships that reach far beyond the field."
"Rest in peace, Dom. You will always be our captain, our teammate, and our friend," the club concluded.
