The Super Rugby Pacific community is mourning the loss of Leo Ta’avao, the young son of former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao. The nine-year-old passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, a tragedy that has resonated throughout the rugby world.
Ta’avao, currently playing for the Highlanders, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, stating, “We are heartbroken to share that our beautiful boy Leo has gained his angel wings. After a brief battle in PICU, Leo passed away surrounded by his loved ones. You have left a giant Leo-sized hole in our hearts darling, we will miss you so, so much. Til we meet again our baby boy.”
Leo was born with partial-trisomy-13, a rare genetic disorder that impacts growth and development. He spent the first three months of his life in hospital, and while his life expectancy was initially estimated to be barely a year, he defied expectations, bringing immense joy to his family for nine years. The diagnosis presented significant challenges, but Ta’avao often spoke of Leo as a source of strength and inspiration.
Just days before announcing Leo’s passing, Ta’avao played a pivotal role in the Highlanders’ stunning 25-23 victory over the Crusaders in their Super Rugby Pacific season opener. He scored a try in the match, a performance that underscored his dedication to his craft even amidst personal hardship. The timing of the loss, so close to a professional high point, adds another layer of poignancy to the situation.
The outpouring of support from the rugby community has been significant. All Blacks vice-captain Ardie Savea was among the first to offer condolences, writing, “Praying and thinking of you and the family, uso.” The Highlanders organization also released a statement, expressing their deepest sympathies to Angus, his wife Kristyn, and their family. “Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kristyn and Georgie during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace Leo,” the club posted on social media.
Ta’avao’s journey to becoming a professional rugby player has been marked by resilience. He has represented both the Chiefs and the Blues in Super Rugby before joining the Highlanders. He earned 23 caps for the All Blacks, showcasing his talent and commitment on the international stage. Throughout his career, Leo has been a constant source of motivation.
In a 2018 interview with Stuff, when Leo was just 14 months old, Ta’avao described the profound impact his son had on his life. “If I’m having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better,” he said. “The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliché, but when I see that, it melts my heart.” This sentiment speaks to the deep bond between father and son, and the immeasurable loss felt by Ta’avao and his family.
The news of Leo’s passing comes as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by families navigating rare genetic disorders. Partial-trisomy-13 is a complex condition with a wide range of potential health problems, and the journey for affected children and their families is often arduous. While medical advancements continue to improve outcomes, the heartbreak of loss remains a reality for many.
Ta’avao’s ability to continue playing professional rugby while privately grappling with his son’s health struggles is a testament to his strength and character. His performance on the field, particularly in the recent victory over the Crusaders, serves as a powerful tribute to Leo’s memory. The Highlanders’ win, while a significant achievement for the team, is now overshadowed by the profound grief experienced by one of their key players.
The rugby community will undoubtedly rally around Ta’avao and his family in the coming weeks and months. The loss of a child is an unimaginable pain, and the support of teammates, friends, and fans will be crucial as they navigate this difficult time. Leo Ta’avao’s brief life touched many, and his memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
As the Super Rugby Pacific season progresses, the Highlanders will carry Leo’s spirit with them, honoring his memory through their play. The team’s success will serve as a tribute to the young boy who inspired one of their key players to overcome adversity and pursue his dreams.
