The world of New Zealand is in shock by the sudden death of Billy Guyton who passed away on Monday just aged 33.
Guyton who played as a fullback, was forced to retire from Rugby Union when only aged 28 after suffering from ongoing concussion symptoms. Billy also represented the Māori All Blacks, Tasman and North Otago during his illustrious career, and was recently working as an assistant coach for the Tasman women’s team in the Farah Palmer Cup.
The former New Zealand rugby star had also represented the Blues, Crusaders and Hurricanes at a respective Super League level with his death touching hearts of thousands worldwide, including semi-professional Rugby union player Lewis Bradley.
“He was a fantastic player for the All blacks, it will be a huge loss not just for New Zealand but also the sport of Rugby Union as well”.
“It was sad enough that he had to retire back in 2018 with his concussion symptoms, so for him to have now passed on top of that, it deeply saddening”.
“I didn’t watch too much of him while he was playing at the Crusaders, but I did watch him play at the blues though and as far as fly-halfs go he was fantastic at it”.
The cause of his death has not yet been revealed. A Tasman team which Guyton had represented over 50 times for had but on their social media to confirm his passing saying “It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton. Billy was a much-loved member of our whole Tasman Rugby Union team and had a positive impact on those he played alongside and coached.”
Another one of his former sides had also stated on social media “We are shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Billy Guyton. He was a talented rugby player, who made 24 appearances for the Blues between 2016-2017. We cannot imagine the heartache his family and friends must be feeling at this difficult time. To everyone who knew Billy, we send them our sincere sympathy.”
Guyton began his Rugby career over in North Otago to which he made 29 appearances for them before transitioning to Tasman where he collected 52 appearances in total. Following brief spells with Crusaders and the Hurricanes the halfback found good success with the Blues.
Guyton was also called up to the Māori All Blacks where he would go on their tour in the Northern Hemisphere earning a start against Irish club Munster, 2 years later however he was forced to end his career early due to symptoms of concussion.