Thursday, March 28, 2024

Tributes paid to young Canterbury hockey player

Green armbands were worn and tributes have been paid to a young Canterbury hockey player who died last weekend after he took his own life.

Chris Figgis, 18, was described by the Kent club as an “exceptional defender” and was part of a successful junior set up that won numerous county and regional titles, while he was one of only a handful of Canterbury juniors that went to all four age group finals.

In recent years, Chris, who was deputy head boy at Kent College, was part of the men’s 2s and had featured in the men’s 1s last season.

“He was an exceptional defender with great vision and versatility,” the club said in a statement.

“His determination to support his team and ability to play under pressure coupled with his undoubted skill brought great success to the teams he played in.”

Fellow Kent side Holcombe paid their respects over the weekend, with teams wearing green armbands.

“We would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of Chris Figgis and Canterbury after Chris sadly passed away last weekend,” the club said.

“As a mark of respect, we have invited all of our teams to wear green armbands this weekend in their matches. Rest in Peace, Chris.”

Canterbury’s Mel Clewlow posted on social media: “Tough and sad times for all who knew “Figgy”. The depth and breadth of the grief and shock is extending far and wide.

“Don’t assume everything is ok and what you see on the outside isn’t always replicated on the inside.”

Kent College headmaster Mark Turnball said: “The Kent College community is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Chris Figgis.

“Chris was a student who really participated in school life, and it is so incredibly sad to think that such a talented person has now left us.”

Last week, representatives from East Kent Mind attended the clubhouse to help support and offer guidance, while the Men’s 2s met as a squad to spend time together.

The club added: “Whether you have been affected by this news or have other concerns about your own or someone else’s mental health, there are a range of national and local charities that can help.”

Canterbury’s President’s Day will be raising money for mental health charities this Sunday.

Two local and national support lines are listed below:

Shout – Text Shout to 85258 a free, confidential, anonymous text support service wherever you are in the UK. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, our trained Shout Volunteers are here for you, day or night.

Release the pressure – text the word Kent to 85258 or call 0800 1070160 for free confidential support at any time.

Total Hockey

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