The rugby league world has been rocked in the past few weeks with a number of sad deaths.
Australian club and coaching hero Paul Green sadly passed away last week, whilst the death of former St Helens, Wigan Warriors and Wakefield Trinity man Ricky Bibey sent shockwaves round the sport.
The inquest into the death of Jack Kirmond, the brother of former Wakefield Trinity, Huddersfield Giants and Featherstone Rovers forward Danny Kirmond, continues with the trial expected to announce its outcome soon.
However, there has been some more sad news emanating out of the rugby league fraternity with the death of former Huddersfield, Bradford Bulls and Halifax player Ben Benn, sadly passing away at the tender age of 30.
Ben’s mum, Mandy Rathmell-Benn, could not believe the news: “Everybody has said he always made everyone laugh,” she told the Halifax Courier. “He was so witty and funny.
“We went out for a meal on Friday in Sowerby Bridge and he just had everyone laughing.”
Ben had most recently been playing for Halifax RUFC’s 1st XV Men, witb teammate Michael Botting expressing his shock over the news.
“It was a pleasure to play alongside him and the most common thing that all the players say is that everyone felt safe when he was there on the pitch,” said Michael.
“You knew he had your back 110 per cent.
“Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family.”
Halifax posted on their Twitter page: “Halifax Panthers are saddened to hear the news of the sudden death of former Fax academy player Ben Benn this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.”
Halifax Panthers are saddened to hear the news of the sudden death of former Fax academy player Ben Benn this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time 💙https://t.co/IPKje3EAlf#MoreThanAGame
— Halifax Panthers 🐾 (@HalifaxPanthers) August 23, 2022
Everyone at Serious About Rugby League would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Ben’s family and friends in what will be a difficult time.
