The Welsh Rugby League has been devastated by the news of Gabriel Holt’s tragic death at the age of 21. Holt, who represented Wigan St Patrick’s and the University of Central Lancashire, earned three caps for the Wales Student National Team last year and was selected for rugby league this year. This is the squad for the upcoming Four Nations tournament.
When news of his sudden death became known, a wave of tributes poured in for the young man. Chris Holt, Gabriel’s father, wrote on Facebook: “Seeing these comments brings tears to my eyes. Gabe was a bit of a journeyman, starting at Atherton Dragons at the age of five.
“Remember when we all had to stand in horizontal sleet in the winter? Or did they shovel the snow off the field before the game? Yes, we sure were crackers, but they loved rolling around in frozen puddles, “I liked looking like that creature.” Black Lagoon when the final whistle blows…
“After the Dragons folded he had a brief spell at Leigh East & Folly Lane before finally finding his permanent home at Pat’s. He was very proud to play for a club with the reputation and team spirit that is ours!’ And every Monday was just the beginning of the countdown to game day, with warmer(ish!) conditions thankfully for us parents.
“Even after leaving for UCLAN, where he loved to play, academic seasons allowed him to return and play for Pat’s team whenever possible, and in his final game he attempted to level the scores against a difficult Leigh Miners before Pat won by two points. He has made some strides to bounce back after overcoming a knee injury, especially after being selected to represent Wales in his second year on call by the Student Four Nations.
“Sadly that wasn’t the case. We are forever indebted to Wigan St Patrick for showing him what ‘team’ means. Everyone has a role to play. Everyone has each other’s back. Everyone is included. No questions asked. The best game in the world and he loved every minute of it, including the dislocated limb.”
Wales Students coach Craig Fisher also posted: “To say I am speechless is an understatement. No words will ever be able to express what an extraordinary human being you are.”
“You were a leader, a team-mate, a champion but most of all a friend to everyone you met. I consider myself honored to know and coach you. I can’t wait to see you wear the red of Wales and tear up the Four Nations in 2024 I was anxious.
“It will be heartbreaking to know that you will not be directly involved in the war with us, but we will take comfort in knowing that our angel Gabriel will be with us every step of the way. God Speed Youth. Your coach forever. .”
Wigan St Patrick’s also posted: “The club is heartbroken to hear the news of the death of Gabriel Holt. He is currently an open age player and progressed from the u13s through the junior sections. Gabe was much loved throughout the club and especially Wales RL. “I received a lot of love from the students over the past few years for being selected.”
They added: “Sending love to Chris, Michelle, Aaron, Dominica, Will and Frankie. From all of us at Wigan St Patricks RIP Gabe. Never Forgotten.”
