Former All Black prop Angus Ta’avao has shared a devastating personal loss, announcing the death of his nine-year-old son just days after a triumphant return to the rugby field.
The 32-year-old forward revealed the heartbreaking news in a social media post following his starring role for the Highlanders in their Super Rugby season opener, an upset 25-23 win over the Crusaders.
Posting a montage of family photos, Ta’avao said his son Leo had “gained his angel wings” after a brief stay in paediatric intensive care.
“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,” Ta’avao wrote. “’Til we meet again our baby boy.”
Leo was born with partial trisomy 13, a rare genetic disorder that can cause severe developmental and physical challenges. He spent the first three months of his life in hospital, despite a life expectancy of less than a year for babies born with the condition. He was nine when he died.
Ta’avao, who played 23 Tests for the All Blacks, crossed for a try on Friday night in what was his first appearance for the Highlanders since joining the club. The win was quickly overshadowed by the tragedy that followed.
Tributes poured in from across the rugby community, including from teammates and official club accounts.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kristyn and Georgie during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace Leo,” the Highlanders posted.
“Sending our thoughts, prayers and love to you and your whānau Angus,” the All Blacks wrote.
In a 2018 interview with Stuff, when Leo was just 14 months old, Ta’avao spoke of his son as his greatest inspiration. “If I’m having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better,” he said at the time. “The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliché, but when I see that, it melts my heart.”
Now, the rugby hardman is facing a loss far greater than anything experienced on the field, as messages of sympathy continue to flow for Ta’avao and his family during an unimaginably painful time.
Images: Instagram
