A 17-year-old amateur female rugby player in France has died following a head injury sustained during a match.
The French Rugby Federation (FFR) announced that Cléa Ménier, a player at Union du Bassin Marmandais, passed away after being seriously injured during a match against Agen Agglo Rugby last weekend.
Incident and Aftermath
According to La Dépêche, the back-row went into cardiac arrest after a blow to the head. She was rushed to Pellegrin Hospital in Bordeaux, where she died from her injuries.
In a statement, the FFR expressed its condolences: "This loss has deeply affected the entire rugby community. In these moments of great sadness, the FFR wishes to express its full support and solidarity to Cléa's family and loved ones. It also extends its sincerest condolences to her teammates, coaches, and all members of the Union du Bassin Marmandais, who are all deeply affected by this terrible tragedy. Everything will be done to understand the circumstances of this accident."
Club Statement and Support
The club also issued a statement, saying: "It is with immense sadness and indescribable sorrow that Union du Bassin Marmandais learned of the passing of Cléa, 17, a young player at our club, following an accident during the match against Agen Agglo Rugby on Saturday, October 17, in Marmande."
The statement acknowledged the emergency and healthcare teams who worked by Cléa's side, including firefighters, emergency medical services (SMUR), and the emergency department and surgical intensive care teams at Pellegrin Hospital in Bordeaux. It also extended thoughts to her family, including her parents, Cécile and Johann; her brother, Clément; and her sister, Coline, who plays in the club's cadet section.
The club noted that since Sunday, the FFR has been fully mobilized alongside the club and Cléa's family, with a psychological support unit set up in coordination with the FFR for anyone in need of assistance.
