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Blues prop Mike Tamoaieta, 23, passes away
By Online Editors
New Zealand Rugby has announced the sudden passing of Blues and North Harbour prop Michael Tamoaieta yesterday.
The 23-year-old was a much-loved partner to Helen, and father to their daughter Aihara, and the Blues and North Harbour prop was a dearly loved son and friend to many.
Today the Blues, North Harbour and New Zealand Rugby communities offered their condolences to his family.
Blues chief executive Michael Redman said that the Blues are stunned by the news and deeply saddened at his passing.
“Michael was a talented athlete and our focus is to offer our support and sympathy for the family, and we are supporting our team and staff, some of whom are currently overseas.”
North Harbour general manager David Gibson said: “Our deepest sympathy goes to Michael’s partner Helen, his daughter Aihara and his family at this difficult time. He will be dearly missed.”
NZR chief executive Steve Tew said: “Our sincerest condolences are with Michael’s family at this very sad time.
“Michael was a valued member of the Blues and North Harbour rugby environments and had been part of the New Zealand Secondary Schools team. We know his family, club and former school mates will be feeling this loss and our thoughts are with them all.”
Michael’s family have asked for privacy as they deal with the shock of his sad passing.
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Latest Comments
"And you think they are finished products? 🤣"
I think Ntamack was a better player at 21 than Marcus is at 25. I think his game will continue to develop, but I don't think either of them will get very much better. Dan Carter became an incredible game manager as he got older, but he never dominated the opposition more than he did aged 23. Wilkinson pretty indisputably hit his peak at 24. Not everyone is Johnny Sexton, and most players who are touted as prodigies turn out to have peaked young.
"That, or the English game has been slow to develop. I'll let you decide the answer to that one Finn 😉"
no, England have generally looked like a good side when Smith isn't in the team.
"Great job illustrating he's the man to take England to WC 27' though, kinda counter to wanting a 35yo Farrell!"
literally no one is arguing for Farrell.
Go to commentsScott Robertson is within his rights to state a case. Richie Mo'unga would have made a huge difference to the All Blacks this year. To say he and Richie worked well together at the Crusaders is a massive understatement. 7 titles speaks for itself. He then guided Brave Lupus to the Japanese League title in 2024. It worked well when Richie's fellow Crusaders great Matt Todd and team mate ,was able to play for the All Blacks while in Japan in 2018.
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