Former Wales women’s coach Warren Abrahams dies at 43

Former Wales women’s rugby head coach Warren Abrahams has passed away at the age of 43, Belgium Rugby has confirmed, Sport360NG reports.

The South Africa-born coach was with Belgium’s women’s team at the Safari 7s tournament in Kenya when he died. In a statement, the Belgian rugby federation expressed deep sorrow over his sudden passing.

“Warren was far more than a coach, he was a mentor, a leader, and above all, a kind and generous person,” the statement read. “His smile, wisdom, and the calm strength he brought to the team will never be forgotten.”

Abrahams spent eight years with Harlequins’ academy between 2011 and 2019 before joining the sevens management teams of the USA women’s and England men’s sides.

He was appointed head coach of the Wales women’s national team in November 2020, but his tenure ended the following summer after less than a year in charge.

The Welsh Rugby Union paid tribute, saying: “Our sincerest condolences go to Warren Abrahams’ family and friends from everyone in Welsh rugby.”

After leaving Wales, Abrahams worked as a consultant with Brazil’s women’s sevens team and took up a role with Belgium earlier this year.

Harlequins also honoured their former coach, saying: “Warren’s passion, leadership and dedication to player development were felt not only at Harlequins but across the wider rugby community throughout his distinguished career.”