Joey Henry from the Royals died earlier this month. Photo: Royals Facebook.
It is hard to remember a time in the Canberra sports community where, in the space of four months, so many prominent people integral to the success of sport in this city have passed away.
It has also been heartwarming to see sporting rivalries put to one side with clubs offering tributes and support to fierce, and in many cases, historical rivals.
Tributes have come from many following the death of Jayde Jones, who died at the age of 37 after a battle with bowel cancer.
Jayde, the wife of former Queanbeyan Whites president Grant Jones, was a much-loved figure in the Canberra rugby community.
A tribute to Jayde Jones from the Queanbeyan Whites. Photo: Queanbeyan White Facebook.
The Queanbeyan Whites posted a tribute on their Facebook page reading:
“Jayde will be remembered as a shining light in our community and for the strength and resilience she showed through the greatest challenge of her life. We honour her as a valued member of our Whites family”
And there was this tribute from the Tuggeranong Vikings: “Jayde will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the joy she brought to those around her. Our thoughts and prayers are with Grant, his family, and all who were close to Jayde during this difficult time.
“The Vikings community stands with you, offering our love and support in the days ahead.”
Jayde’s death came soon after the passing of young Royals player Joey Henry and Tuggeranong Vikings Life Member Duncan McMillan, in what has been an incredibly tough month for the Canberra rugby community.
That same community spirit came to the fore in July with the death of Gungahlin Eagles Life Member, Des Fooks.
Leeroy Peterson backed the Brave in the NHL. Photo: Supplied.
A number of Canberra sports have been in mourning following the sudden death of Leeroy Petersen.
In addition to owning the Caribou Kingston bar, Leeroy was a passionate supporter and sponsor of the Canberra Brave ice hockey team.
The Canberra Pirates women’s ice hockey team also benefited through Leeroy’s passion, as did teams in Canberra gridiron, floorball and lacrosse.
The Woden Valley Rams were also rocked by the death of Kirstie Allard, who gave an enormous commitment to the club in numerous roles.
Here is an excerpt of the tribute to her on the Rams Facebook page: “She has held a number of roles within the Junior Club (including Club President) and was a big supporter of Women in rugby league, working hard to build female participation in Junior Rugby League.
Mick and Kirstie Allard. Woden Valley Rams said she had an “everlasting passion and commitment to the club”. Photo: Woden Valley Rams.
“We have no doubt that both the Junior and Senior club will continue to benefit from her work for many years to come.
“Kirstie also first aided for the Senior Club for the past three years until her illness earlier this season. Her smiling face and friendly approach will be missed by all.”
Zane Thomson died on 27 July. Photo: Woden Valley Rams.
The Rams earlier this year paid tribute to former player Zane Thomson, who died at just 23 years of age following a motorcycling accident.
In acknowledging the deaths of a number of people in Canberra sport, not just rugby, the Royals Rugby Club published this message on social media: “At times like these, we are reminded that rugby is more than just a sport, it’s a family. Please take a moment to check in on your mates, reach out to those who may be struggling, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help.”
If you ever needed evidence that the Canberra sports community is a significant part of our town’s positive culture, look no further than the past month and the value placed on individuals who have contributed through sport.
