England women’s international forward Natalie Harrowell has died at the age of 29.
Harrowell, mother to a young daughter, had played three internationals for England and was a key figure in Featherstone reaching the inaugural 2017 Women’s Super League Grand Final.
Featherstone confirmed the news of Harrowell’s passing in a statement online.
FEATHERSTONE Rovers are left devastated by the tragic death of women’s player Natalie Harrowell, aged 29.
— Featherstone Rovers (@FevRovers) December 10, 2019
Our thoughts and condolences are with Natalie’s family at this sad time pic.twitter.com/aFoTgE4QU7
“This is tragic news,” Rugby Football League chief executive Ralph Rimmer said.
“I know all involved in rugby league will join me in sending their deepest sympathy to Natalie’s family, friends and team-mates.
“She was part of a group of players who made history when Featherstone played Bradford in the first Women’s Super League Grand Final in 2017.
“And the three England caps she earned during an era of huge progress for women’s rugby league are an indication of the respect in which she was held by team-mates and opponents alike.”
She worked in a development role at Wakefield Trinity, encouraging more girls to get involved in playing rugby league.