*This content was translated by AI.
Buni Rangi Simonie (26), a player for Kyushu Power Guden Vortex of Japan's professional rugby second division, who collapsed and died suddenly from heatstroke during outdoor training in the scorching heat, has returned to his home country of Fiji after concluding memorial services in Japan.
Japanese media outlet 'Sponichi Annex' reported on the 24th that "Simonie, a Fijian player for Kyushu Power Guden Vortex of Rugby League One's second division, passed away from heatstroke at a hospital in Fukuoka city on the 7th. After holding memorial services with officials in Japan, he returned to his home country of Fiji with his family and observed local funeral rites."
The club stated through an official announcement: "We held a memorial service focused on officials within Japan. Due to venue size and scheduling constraints, we were unable to inform fans or arrange a direct farewell gathering. We sincerely apologize to all fans who wished to attend."
It further added: "While the bereaved family remained in Japan, warm condolences and support continued from the Fukuoka community, Fiji's local communities, and the Japanese rugby circle. We deeply thank everyone for their understanding and assistance. We express our profound gratitude for Simonie's dedicated contributions to Japanese rugby and pray for his eternal peace."
Simonie, a Fijian national, leveraged his overwhelming physical presence of 196cm and 117kg to play for Tokyo Sungoliath in the first division until last season before making a sudden move to Kyushu in late July.
However, his first team training turned tragic. At 4:50 p.m. on the 3rd at the team training facility in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, Simonie began stumbling while undergoing approximately 50 minutes of running-focused drills. Training was immediately halted, and hydration and icing treatments were administered, but he lost consciousness and collapsed. He was rushed to a hospital via emergency vehicle for treatment but passed away on the morning of the 7th, four days later. The official cause of death diagnosed by physicians was heatstroke.
At the time of the incident, Fukuoka City's highest temperature reached 36.9°C, the second-highest recorded this year, prompting a heatstroke warning. Additionally, the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT), which indicates risk levels, was confirmed to have exceeded the highest danger threshold at over 34.
The death of a fit 26-year-old professional rugby player from heatstroke during outdoor training in extreme summer heat sent shockwaves through Japan's sports community and local public opinion. As awareness grows regarding outdoor training in lethal heat, voices are increasingly calling for a comprehensive review of guidelines for training and match scheduling at sports venues during midsummer.
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*This content was translated by AI.
