It is with great sadness that Northampton Saints announces the passing of Saints Wheelchair Rugby player, Louise Boyle.
Boyle joined Saints Wheelchair Rugby in August 2018 and, though she never got the opportunity to play for the side competitively, she represented the Club at GBWR’s #ThisGirlCan event in Essex last October.
Louise – who would have turned 40 on Thursday and was by her own admission ‘hooked’ by the sport – got into wheelchair rugby following a spinal injury and never looked back, relishing being the only female player at Saints for a time while actively trying to attract more women and girls to the Club.
“Louise left a lasting impression on both the Club and her teammates during her relatively short time at Northampton,” said Saints Wheelchair Rugby coach Jamie Higgins.
“She arrived at the Club keen to get involved and despite being the only female in the side at the time, she certainly gave the guys a run for their money on the court.
“Arriving at each session with the determination to play her best, Louise was a brilliant advocate for the sport and will be sorely missed by everyone at Saints.
“She will always be remembered for playing with an infectious smile on her face and our thoughts remain with her family and friends at this sad time.”
The funeral service for Louise Boyle will be held at Rainsbrook Crematorium, Ashlawn Road, Rugby at 11.30am on Thursday 4 July. Louise’s family request that bright colours are worn.
Flowers can be sent to Revel Funeral Service, Bretford House, Rugby, CV23 0JZ.
