The All Blacks have been left ‘devastated’ and ‘heartbroken’ as they announced the sudden passing of a much-loved member of the team who died after a medical event at the team’s hotel
The All Blacks have confirmed the sudden death of their long-serving and much-loved member of their team. New Zealand are currently in Scotland gearing up for their forthcoming Nations Championship campaign.
However, their preparations have been dealt a devastating blow, with the squad confirming the passing of head of security Logan Cadwallader following a medical episode at the team’s Edinburgh hotel on Sunday.
Cadwallader had been with the squad for a decade, travelling the globe alongside the team. He is survived by his wife Nannette and three children. Assistant coach Jason Ryan said the squad was “heartbroken” at the awful news.
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He told New Zealand media on Tuesday that “this is something you don’t really prepare for, losing a team member.
“I just want to, on behalf of the All Blacks, pass on our sincere condolences to Logan’s family. Particularly to his wife Nannette and three kids Trey, Brooke and Mia,” Ryan said.
“I can tell you that the team is heartbroken. He had a massive influence on a lot of people in the All Blacks in the last decade.
“Loges was our quiet hero. He was always looking ahead for us and always looking out for us and our families. The country has lost a great soldier and we have lost a great team member and we love him.”
Head coach Dave Rennie spoke with similar emotion, saying his players were struggling to come to terms with the news. “Logan has been a big part of the All Blacks family for a long time,” he said. “He was the ultimate team man, loved and trusted by all and a true professional. He looked after all of us, players and staff, and he was a good mate to many in this team.
“We are all devastated. Our thoughts are with his wife, Nannette, his children, Trey, Brooke and Mia, and his wider family and friends. As a team, we will honour Logan and the legacy he has left on the All Blacks.”
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster added: “Logan was a valued and trusted member of the management group over the past decade, and he will be greatly missed by everyone who worked alongside him.
“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this very difficult time.”
New Zealand are set to face Scotland this Saturday at Murrayfield.