Former Tasman Mako captain and Highlanders flanker Shane Christie has died, aged 39.
His sudden death on Wednesday morning is a suspected suicide.
NZ Rugby paid tribute to Christie, noting his contribution to the teams he represented in Super Rugby and the National Provincial Championship and, later, his willingness to work as a coach.
“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shane Christie,’’ NZ Rugby said in a statement issued to Stuff.
“Shane represented Aotearoa New Zealand in both the All Blacks Sevens and the Māori All Blacks jerseys.
“He played in our domestic competitions and Super Rugby, forging deep connections with the Tasman Mako and the Highlanders. He was passionate about coaching, holding coaching roles with Tasman, for both their women’s and men’s teams, and the Highlanders.
Stuff
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“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shane Christie,’’ NZ Rugby said in a statement issued to Stuff.
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