Kawa Leauma

Spain’s national rugby federation has confirmed that one of its players, Kawa Leauma, died after an accidental fall at a shopping centre. Photograph: Ordizia rugby

Tributes pour in after NZ-born Spanish lock Kawa Leauma falls 20 FEET to his death

Spain’s national rugby federation has confirmed that one of its players, Kawa Leauma, died after an accidental fall at a shopping centre.

Kawa Leauma

Spain’s national rugby federation has confirmed that one of its players, Kawa Leauma, died after an accidental fall at a shopping centre. Photograph: Ordizia rugby

Spain’s national rugby federation has confirmed that one of their players, Kawa Leauma, died after an accidental fall following a match against the Netherlands in Amsterdam.

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“We regret to announce the death of Kawa Leauma which took place last night,” said the Spanish federation.

They declined to give more information “at the express wish of his wife, who is currently travelling to the Dutch capital”.

Kawa Leauma fell six metres from a terrace

Sports daily Marca reported that the 32-year-old lock forward, who is of Samoan origin, fell six metres (20 feet) from the terrace of a shopping centre, resulting in severe head injuries.

He underwent surgery but succumbed to his injuries in hospital.

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Kawa Leauma started his rugby career playing for Samoa’s under-20 side and playing for clubs in Auckland before turning to Spain where he joined first division club Ordizia.

His international career with Spain had just begun, although he was left out of the side for the World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam due to questions over his eligibility.

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World Rugby chairperson Bill Beaumont was among those to offer their condolences.

“Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Spain international Kawa Leauma. My thoughts are with his teammates & family at this difficult time,” he tweeted.