Latest news with #VilanoSaunders
The Herald
07-05-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
Investigation under way into death of NWU student from rugby injury
North-West University (NWU) says an investigation has been launched into the death of 20-year-old student and rugby player Vilano Saunders. 'The Falcons Rugby Union, which governs the local rugby league, has initiated its own investigation to examine the specifics of the incident and assess whether any safety protocols or guidelines were breached during the game,' said spokesperson Louis Jacobs. This comes after Saunders died on Monday, after sustaining a serious neck injury during a rugby match on Saturday afternoon. Saunders was injured early in the match and immediately rushed to Midvaal Hospital, where doctors confirmed the seriousness of his condition. He was later transferred to Sebokeng Hospital for further treatment. Despite being placed in traction, he died on Monday while awaiting spinal surgery. At the time of his death, Saunders had no feeling or movement below his neck and was classified as a quadriplegic. Doctors had not yet determined whether he would regain any sensation or mobility. Before his death Saunders' girlfriend Caitlin Venter started a Back-a-Buddy campaign to cover his medical expenses and rehabilitation. The campaign, which aimed to raise R2m, garnered significant support from 79 unique donors, raising more than R65,000 to assist with his care.
TimesLIVE
07-05-2025
- Sport
- TimesLIVE
Investigation under way into death of NWU student from rugby injury
North-West University (NWU) says an investigation has been launched into the death of 20-year-old student and rugby player Vilano Saunders. 'The Falcons Rugby Union, which governs the local rugby league, has initiated its own investigation to examine the specifics of the incident and assess whether any safety protocols or guidelines were breached during the game,' said spokesperson Louis Jacobs. This comes after Saunders died on Monday, after sustaining a serious neck injury during a rugby match on Saturday afternoon. Saunders was injured early in the match and immediately rushed to Midvaal Hospital, where doctors confirmed the seriousness of his condition. He was later transferred to Sebokeng Hospital for further treatment. Despite being placed in traction, he died on Monday while awaiting spinal surgery. At the time of his death, Saunders had no feeling or movement below his neck and was classified as a quadriplegic. Doctors had not yet determined whether he would regain any sensation or mobility. Before his death Saunders' girlfriend Caitlin Venter started a Back-a-Buddy campaign to cover his medical expenses and rehabilitation. The campaign, which aimed to raise R2m, garnered significant support from 79 unique donors, raising more than R65,000 to assist with his care.
The South African
06-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
RIP: University rugby player dies after neck injury
Extremely concerning reports came to light this past weekend highlighting that North-West University student Vilano Saunders had suffered a serious neck injury during an Under-21 rugby match on Saturday, 3 May. A 'BackABuddy' campaign was quickly set up in order to provide financial support, but it's since been tragically confirmed that Saunders passed away in hospital on Monday. A North-West University spokesperson confirmed the tragic death, with the 20-year-old having suffered the injury in a scrum. Although he most regularly played at loose forward, Saunders had moved to the front row. According to the 'BackABuddy' post shared before he passed away, the following message provided insight as to what happened. 'Tragically, on Saturday, 3 May 2025, during a match at the NWU campus, Vilano suffered a catastrophic neck injury within the first 30 minutes of play. He was urgently taken to Midvaal Hospital where initial CT scans revealed the severity of his condition. Due to the urgent need for specialised care and the high cost of treatment at Midvaal, he was transferred to Sebokeng Hospital.' The Vanderbijlpark Mustangs – who were the opposing team when the injury occurred – extended their condolences on his death. 'The entire Vanderbijlpark Mustang Rugby Club mourns with you during this heartbreaking time. Rugby is more than just a sport — it is a brotherhood. When one of us fall, we all feel the loss. The courage, passion, and dedication you showed on and off the field are remembered and deeply respected. 'May his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and may his legacy inspire strength and unity in your team and community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, teammates, coaches, and friends as you navigate this painful loss. 'Please know that we stand with you in solidarity and offer our full support during this time of grief.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
