Billy Guyton, a New Zealand rugby union player who played for the Blues, Crusaders and Hurricanes, died suddenly on the 15th of May 2023.
His was confirmed by the Tasman Rugby Union. Details of his death have not been revealed.
“It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton’’ the Tasman Union said in a statement.
“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. Billy has been a major contributor to the development of women’s rugby across our Tasman region.
“Our condolences and Aroha are extended to Billy’s whanau, friends and colleagues during this sad time.”
The Blues said in a statement: “We are shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Billy Guyton… 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 played for North Otago in the Heartland championship for the previous three years, making 29 appearances for the province.
According to a Stuff article, Guyton announced his retirement from playing in 2018 as a result of concussion symptoms.
The Tasman union declared in 2022 that Guyton was employed by the women’s provincial team as an assistant coach.