THE legacy of a popular West Cumbrian rugby player is living on as the first set of heart screenings for community rugby players took place in his memory.
The Logan and Gary's Lions Heart Fund was set up in memory of two outstanding and committed Rugby League Lions.
In January, 18-year-old Logan Holgate passed away suddenly in his sleep at his home in Whitehaven.
Logan was a young Hensingham and England Community Lions U19 player and Gary McMahon was a Rugby League Coach in Wigan and an England Community Lions U19 Coach.
The rugby communities in Cumbria and the north west have worked together to raise funds to support this charity so that people involved in community rugby league can be heart screened.
On Saturday, December 2 the fund held its first Heart Screen Day at St Benedict’s CHS in Whitehaven. The screening was open to anyone involved in community rugby league.
Logan's aunt Lisa Powe, who has led the fund in memory of her nephew, said: "Logan was someone who absolutely loved having all the attention on him so he will be delighted to say the least. He will be exceptionally proud that he is still able to help all his rugby mates.
"As a family we have been truly humbled by the support that we have received from the rugby and wider community since we lost Logan, and this fund is one way of us saying a big thank you to everyone but also ensures that Logan’s legacy lives on.
"Logan was such a bubbly character with a heart of gold and quite simply this fund gives us comfort in knowing that we can help others and potentially save lives.
"I find it an honour and privilege to do this Logan’s memory and am overwhelmed by the help and support I receive."
Players from all over West Cumbria, including community clubs Hensingham, Kells, Wath Brow, Egremont and Seaton attended the screening, with father and son Geoff and Luke Clements being the first to take part.
Geoff, who coached Logan for St Benedict's Rugby Union in under 14s and 16s leagues, said: "I knew Logan and coached Logan. To have this opportunity... we jumped at it, from kids at 16 to adults up to 55, it's a great thing and I do think it will save lives.
"It's keeping his memory alive. It's a tragedy what happened, but if this can save someone passing away in similar circumstances it is great."
The day was supported by the Danny Jones Defib Fund, a fund set up by Lizzie, the wife of Danny Jones, a Keighley Cougars and Wales international, who died from an undiagnosed heart condition while playing.
Lizzie said: “On December 2, 2023 two very special charities came together to make Whitehaven a little bit safer.
"We successfully screened 100 people and continue to make a huge difference to young people’s lives within our wonderful sport."
The day was supported by local nurses Kirsten, Mark, Joanne and Lisa, who kindly volunteered their time to help carry out the ECGs, and St Benedict’s CHS, who allowed the team to use their facilities to host the day.
The group plan to continue with the screening as often as possible, with the next one being in early 2024 down in the north west, then another one up in Cumbria shortly after that.
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