Loughborough postgrad dies after rugby tackle on the pitch

A talented female rugby player has died from brain injuries caused by a strong tackle over a month earlier, an inquest has heard.

Sarah Chesters earned a first class History degree from Manchester Met before studying Sociology of Sport MSc at Loughborough.

The postgrad suffered a stroke in November, most likely instigated by the impact of colliding with an opposition player in October.

Sarah in action

After the contact the five foot two inch full-back complained of a pain to her collarbone, but walked off the pitch and declined medical attention.

In the weeks that followed she continued to make her daily two hour commute.

Tragically, Sarah’s condition worsened on November 13 after she felt nauseous.

Her health rapidly worsened and she died eight days later, after being taken off a life support machine.

North Staffordshire Coroners Court heard on Monday that Sarah died from brain injuries which were probably triggered by the tackle while playing for Longton RUFC.

Longton Rugby Club

Sarah’s dad Michael Chesters, 65, said his daughter had “loved” rugby ever since she was introduced to it whilst studying at Manchester Met.

Mr Chesters said: “Despite her small stature, she was five foot two, she was extremely strong.”

Sarah’s friend Lesley Thompson was playing alongside her in the game where she suffered her injury.

Giving evidence, she said: “I didn’t see it, but I believe she was tackled by a lot bigger person. It was just a tackle, nothing malicious or heated.

“She was lying flat on the floor, holding her right collarbone.”

A neighbour of Sarah’s, who did not wish to be named, said: “She was such a bubbly girl and loved her sports.

“She was fiercely competitive and determined to succeed whether it be on the pitch or at university.

“I’m sure that grit and determination is what made her carry on living her life as normal despite suffering the nasty injury.

“She was only a small girl but she was a tough little cookie and would never shy from a crunch tackle.”