http://www.newsday.co.tt/sport/0,149583.htmlTTRFU mourn loss of Under-19 player Wednesday, October 26 2011
THE TRINIDAD and Tobago Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) has sent condolences to the family of national Under-19 player, Kendall Mootoo on his sudden passing. Mootoo, who was a former St Mary’s College student, played for the Caribs Rugby Football Club and has represented Trinidad and Tobago at the Under-19, development and national men’s 7’s and 15-a-side squad.
He made his national debut against Barbados and Guyana earlier this year.
The young players’ passing has sent shockwaves throughout the rugby community. Teammates who played with Mootoo at the Under-19 level were distraught upon hearing the shocking news.
TTRFU chairman of selectors, Curtis Nero hailed Motoo as a disciplined, courageous and dedicated young man who always represented his country with pride and dignity. Nero admitted that Mootoo’s passing would be a major dent in the local rugby fraternity.
“Kendall had a very bright future. He was one of the players who would have played a significant part in our rugby plans in the lead up to the Rio de Janiero Olympics 2016. I extend deepest condolences to his parents, sisters, friends and teammates,” stated a bereaved Nero.
He said that Mootoo was an asset to the local rugby family and would be greatly missed. He revealed the importance of such a loss and the effects it would cause on fellow players,
“Kendall was always respectful and willing to go the extra mile. He never gave less than 100 percent. He could be depended on and trusted with the responsibility of wearing national colours. Words cannot express the sense of loss and sadness,” continued Nero.
In May, Mootoo was selected as one of 13 uncapped rugby players for this year’s Caribbean men’s 15-a-side rugby championship. He also represented TT at the North America and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Caribbean Under-19 Rugby Championships between 2006 – 2009.
In July last year, Mootoo made his national rugby sevens debut at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games at the National Stadium, Guyana.
Captain of the CAC national squad, Wayne Kelly was overwhelmed upon hearing the news of his teammates’ passing acknowledged Mootoo as a great all-round player who assisted the team in every way possible.
He stated, “Kendall was never overawed at making the step up from the Under-19 rugby to the senior level. He worked hard and did not complain. He was always prepared to work hard on and off the field of play for the benefit of the team and his teammates. In practice and with fundraising efforts. This is a young man who had such a bright future.”
TTRFU secretary, Colin Peters also expressed his condolences to Mootoo’s loved ones and acknowledged the contributions he made to the sport.
“Kendall was a joy to have on the team. He was very respectful, disciplined and enjoyed his rugby and teammates. He took great pride in playing for his country. He was a credit to his family, club and country,” explained Peters.
Officials and representatives of the entire TTRFU have again sent their condolences to the family and friends of Mootoo.
