The New South Wales Waratahs and broader rugby community is today in shock after the tragic passing of former NSW Waratahs lock, Dan Vickerman.
Vickerman passed away at his family home in Sydney overnight. He was just 37 years of age.
The giant lock played 63 Tests for the Wallabies in an international Rugby career spanning a decade from 2002-2011. His final Test appearance was the 2011 Rugby World Cup semi-final against New Zealand in Auckland.
Joining the NSW Waratahs in 2004, Vickerman went on to play five seasons and 53 matches in the sky blue jersey.
Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Vickerman moved to Australia with his family as a 21-year-old when he linked with the Brumbies and made his Super Rugby debut in the 2001 season. The following year, he was called on for Australia 'A' duties for a match against Canada, and in June 2002 made his Test debut in a 31-25 Wallabies victory over France at Stadium Australia.
After playing in his second Rugby World Cup in 2007, he withdrew from international Rugby for three years to study in England.
Vickerman earned a degree in Land Economics from Cambridge University and played in two Varsity matches whilst studying at the University, captaining the side to 31-27 victory over eternal rival Oxford in 2009. Whilst in England he also had a short stint with Premiership club, Northampton Saints, with whom he played four matches in the 2009-10 season.
The 204cm powerhouse then returned to Australia to continue his career with the Waratahs and Wallabies, earning a place in the Wallabies 2011 Rugby World Cup squad. He was forced to retire from the game through injury in 2012.
NSW Rugby Union and Waratahs CEO, Andrew Hore said: “Today our NSW Rugby and Waratahs community is in mourning after the tragic passing of Dan Vickerman.
“Dan was well respected for his on field leadership and performance and equally respected by all that knew him off the field.
“His tireless commitment and passion to helping improve Rugby as well as his commitment to supporting players throughout their careers through his role with RUPA, is a legacy that will long live on.
“The shockwaves of his tragic passing will be felt right across our rugby community. Our thoughts are with his wife Sarah, their two sons and other friends and family during this difficult time.”
RUPA CEO, Ross Xenos said: “On behalf of all players, we extend our deepest sympathies to Dan’s young family at this difficult time. We are truly shocked and united in our despair.
“Dan was universally respected by his peers and the rugby community during and beyond his playing days. Since retiring, he was very generous in giving back to the game through coaching and voluntary roles supporting players’ off-field development.
"We encourage all players who are affected by today's terribly sad news to support and be there for each other and to contact RUPA if they would like to talk."
