Taranaki Rugby would like to express their sincere condolences and deep sorrow at the tragic passing of Sean Wainui.

Taranaki Rugby Chief Executive Officer Laurence Corlett said the thoughts and support of players and staff were with Sean’s wife Paige, children Kawariki and Arahia, and their wider whānau.

“A humble man who carried his culture on and off the field. A proud Maori who was a role model for us all. Our heart goes out to Paige and his two tamariki Kawariki and Arahia”. Corlett said.

“It was a real shock for the staff, players, and management who had watched Sean grow from a young 18 year old boy to the man we have lost.’’

“Sean played a part in developing our team waiata, which is sung after every victory. He will be remembered as a Taranaki man who gave so much for the Amber and Black. Sean will not be forgotten.”

Yarrows Taranaki Bulls Head Coach Neil Barnes worked with Wainui in both the Chiefs and Taranaki environment.

“I guess the depth of feeling expressed in our huddle when we were told of Seany’s tragic death, epitomises the depth of feeling there is in our team for one of our most respected players.

The respect he has earned, is not just about his attitude, commitment and performance on field, but more the leader, good human being, and family man off it.

Life’s travels weren’t always smooth for Sean, but his family should be so proud of how he faced adversity and achieved what he has in life.

Our love and sympathy goes out to his whole family in such a tragic situation.”

Wainui was contracted to Taranaki Rugby as an 18 year old in 2014 and was a proud member of the New Plymouth Old Boys Rugby Club.

In his first year out of school he was a part of the historic 2014 national provincial championship winning squad, making his debut that year as a replacement against Waikato.

Wainui made 53 appearances for the Amber & Blacks between 2014 and 2020 before transferring to Bay of Plenty for the 2021 season.

Article added: Tuesday 19 October 2021