Jack Jeffery suffered an injury while scoring a try during a match for Evesham RFC against Berkswell and Balsall on Saturday and has tragically died
The 27-year-old was taken to hospital after being injured in the seniors league game against Berkswell and Balsall on Saturday afternoon.
His father Glenn said in a statement that his son died “doing what he loved the most, playing rugby”.
Club chairman Dave Summerfield said the players were reeling as “it was such a terrible shock”.
He said the accident had “affected the players greatly”, adding: “As a club, we have been overwhelmed by the messages of support and goodwill from the rugby community.
“Jack was calm, respected and highly thought of. Our club and community have lost such a bright light.”
A statement on the club’s website said Mr Jeffery, who lived in London, was “adding another try to his phenomenal record” and was injured in an accident on the pitch as he scored.
“He would often return from London for training and was always at the heart of club activities,” it added.
Glenn Jeffery posted on Facebook: “It is with great sadness that I need to let you know we lost our beloved son Jack yesterday.”
Wasps star Stooke also posted on Sunday: “Thoughts are with the family of jack Jeffery and everyone @EveshamRFC this morning. An old school colleague and team mate of mine.”
He was followed by Leicester Tigers fly-half Burns, who said: “So sad to hear about the passing of Jack Jeffery. A young rugby player who sadly lost his life whilst playing the sport we all love. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone @EveshamRFC #RIP.”
And the North Midlands RFU wrote: “It is with immeasurable sadness that we have to report the tragic loss of North Midlands player Jack Jeffery from Evesham Rugby Club yesterday 12th February 2022. The whole of North Mids sends their sincere condolences to all those who knew Jack and affected by this tragic loss.”
Nigel Huddleson, Conservative MP for Mid Worcestershire, tweeted: “My deepest sympathies go to his family, friends and teammates. The outpouring of messages shows how incredibly popular he was.”