Tributes paid to popular East Lothian rugby captain after sudden death following 'freak event'

Tributes have been paid to a rugby captain who died suddenly after a “freak event” just days into the New Year.

Aiden Hoenigmann passed away on January 8 after an irregular heartbeat starved his brain of oxygen and left him in a coma.

The 27-year-old was club captain at Ross High RFC based in Tranent, East Lothian, and former club captain at Tranent & Preston Village cricket club.

Sharing the news on social media, Aiden’s dad Paul Hoenigmann said: “It’s is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to inform you that our beautiful son/partner Aiden Hoenigmann has passed away at the age of only 27.

“An irregular heartbeat starved his brain of oxygen for 45 mins on Thursday morning and he has been in a coma till this morning. We are devastated that a freak event has turned our worlds upside down.

“The only positive is that multiple donors will benefit from his young, fit and healthy organs.”

Tributes have poured in for the “talented” sportsman and “one of life’s good guys”.

Ross High RFC shared their devastation in a post, writing: “We are so dreadfully sad to let our members and friends know that our Club Captain, Aiden Hoenigmann has passed away at the age of only 27.

“Our deepest sympathies and condolences go to Aiden’s partner, family and friends.

“Aiden played throughout our Youth Section, rising to 1st XV player, and Club Captain.

“A hard working player, a harder working Clubperson and Captain.

“He will be missed by everyone associated with Ross High RFC. May he rest in peace.”

Tranent FC added: “Everyone at Tranent Sundays would like to pass their sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Aiden Hoenigmann who has sadly passed away.

“Aiden was one of life’s great guys and was a well known figure to everyone at Tranent Sundays. In memory of Aiden the teams will do a minute’s applause on Sunday at home to Meadowbank. RIP Aiden.”

Leith Celtic Supporters Club said Aiden was “extremely popular” among fans.

They posted: “It’s with great sadness tonight that the Leith CSC have learned the news that our friend and member Aiden Hoenigmann has passed away at the age of 27.

“Aiden was an extremely popular member amongst everyone on the bus and many will remember some great memories created on some memorable trips following his team.

“We are absolutely heartbroken and we pass on our deepest condolences to Aiden’s family and friends.”