Shock following death of former teen sporting talent turned coach
Twenty-six-year-old father of two Regan Wilson died on Sunday. He was a former nationally ranked junior athletics star who had turned his sights on coaching rugby.
Many Southlanders are in shock following the sudden death of a former nationally ranked junior athlete who in recent years had turned his focus to his progression as a rugby coach.
Twenty-six-year-old father of two Regan Wilson died on Sunday.
As a teen, Wilson made his mark in the sport of athletics, but his talents stretched across multiple sports.
He also represented New Zealand Maori in rugby at under-18 level before leaving Central Southland College in 2016.
Wilson, who grew up in Ohai, stopped playing rugby following concussion issues and opted to step into coaching.
It included stints helping the Central Southland College first XV, Midlands, and Marist.
Wilson was on hand on Saturday in his assistant coach’s role when Marist beat Blues in a Southland premier club rugby fixture.
He has also coached Southland age-group representative teams, and there were plans in place for Wilson to be involved in the Southland Under-19 coaching setup this year.
Last year, Wilson attended a Highlanders Schools camp in Dunedin as one of the coaches.
A call for support has been issued to rally around Wilson’s young family with a Givealittle page set up for people to help.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of Regan, a beloved husband, father, and friend. His loss has left an unimaginable void in the lives of his family,” the Givealittle post stated.
“In the midst of their grief, we’re reaching out to ask for support — emotionally, spiritually, and, if you’re able, financially.
“Donations will go directly to help Regan's family, Bethany, Benji and Tui, with immediate needs, and to provide some stability as they begin to navigate life without him.
“No amount is too small. Even just sharing this post helps.”
People can find the Givealittle page by clicking here.
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