All at North Midlands are RFU are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Stourbridge Under-14s player Tom Mole.
Our condolences go to Tom’s family, friends, team-mates and all at Stourbridge.
We reproduce below a tribute from the club:
Stourbridge Rugby Club and the Under 14s 2017-18 are saddened to announce that one of our Junior Rugby boys has passed away. Thomas Mole, aged 14, unfortunately lost his short, but fiercely battled fight, on Thursday 26th April.
Tom was one of the founding members of his age group and throughout his years with his team mates has flourished into a massively physical and combative Number Eight and in true 8’s style he wasn’t afraid to push the boundaries of the laws. He was a true warrior and would do anything for his team mates (although he would never let on just how proud of them he was). He will leave a massive Size 10, going on 12, gap in their age group that they will never forget or try to replace and our thoughts and condolences are with his Dad Simon, his Mum Rachel and his little sister Poppy.
Whilst he was ill, he was under the care of the Birmingham Children’s Hospital and we are thankful that they used every ounce to help Tom. It was one battle too far, but now as an Age Group the Under 14s will reflect, learn and go on with Tom forever in their hearts.
The Number 8 will be retired in his honour and replaced with a T. These times shouldn’t happen to our kids, but the world can be a cruel place at times and we trust within our safe-keeping, and guidance of the coaches, we can help the boys and family through the difficult times ahead. The messages of support they have already received from the rugby family both near and far have been truly humbling and these will be of great comfort over the next few months. His team mates will line up with the players prior to Saturday’s fixture against Otley for one minute’s applause for Tom.
In honour of Tom we propose that we will be holding various events to help raise funds for the Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital and we will post details when we have got them confirmed until then look after your precious ones and count your lucky stars.