Former Wales Women’s head coach, Warren Abrahams, has sadly passed away at the age of 43 while coaching the Belgium national women’s sevens team at a tournament in Nairobi, Kenya.
The Belgium Rugby Federation confirmed the tragic news, expressing their mourning over the sudden death of Abrahams, who was the head coach of the BelSevens team. They have provided support to the players and staff, who have returned to Belgium and are receiving psychological assistance to cope with the loss.
The cause of Abrahams’s death has not been disclosed. Originally from the Western Cape in South Africa, Abrahams played rugby for Durbanville‐Bellville and Stellenbosch University before transitioning to a coaching role. He had a distinguished career, coaching various teams including Wales Women, USA sevens, England Sevens men’s team, and the Harlequins academy.
Harlequins, his former club, shared a tribute on social media, expressing shock and sadness over his sudden passing. They highlighted Abrahams’ significant impact on the club during his time with the Academy and praised his passion and commitment to player development.
Abrahams took over as Wales Women’s head coach in 2020 but parted ways with the Welsh Rugby Union after less than nine months, following a challenging period where the team struggled during the Six Nations amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
The rugby community mourns the loss of a talented coach, with heartfelt condolences extended to Abrahams’ family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.