12th June 2017
We are all aware of the events that tragically occurred at Rat Park on Saturday 10th June, between Gordon 5th grade and the Rats’ Lachlan Ward. The Rats player stood up, collapsed and could not be resuscitated. The exact cause is unknown there is no suggestion of foul play.
The actions of the team and the management in the immediate response was exemplary.
The players and Mark Fargus returned to TG Millner where we ran a debrief and allowed the players to ask questions and be informed on what may happen over the next days to weeks. Information on where to access further support was provided verbally and will be followed up in writing.
The ARU support have been contacted. Counsellors have been in attendance at training on Tuesday evening and if any further contact is needed, please get in touch with me on the email below.
Everyone will deal with this differently depending on their own experiences and support networks. Many at the club are friends of the Ward family and will also be grieving. It is important to recognise this. Unfortunately, there are always more questions than answers at a time like this.
If you do not feel up to playing in the next game or don’t want to come to training that is ok, this won’t impact selections.
Dr Liz Swinburn
Gordon Rugby Club Doctor
lizswin@optusnet.com.au