A basketball player fell and passed away during a game between Jersey and Guernsey. Guillaume Hoareau collapsed during the Fort Regent game on Saturday, according to the Jersey Basketball Association. Shortly after suffering a heart arrest, he passed away in the hospital. In a social media statement, the Jersey Basketball Association said, “As Guillaume was fit, healthy, and not known to have any underlying health problems, it is currently unclear why this happened.”
The post also disclosed that since all training had been pushed back until after half term, the coaching staff will have time to “process the loss of their dear friend and colleague.” Not only did Mr. Hoareau play on the men’s island team, but he also mentored young basketball players. Paul Milbank, president of the Jersey Basketball Association, said: “We are all shocked by Guillaume’s passing. G was really important to our basketball community.For our players, both senior and junior, he acted as a mentor and inspiration.
He had a strong desire to see basketball on the island improved. At the Island Games, he enthusiastically represented Jersey and the children he coached.”
“Beyond his official roles, G was our friend, our brother, and our community’s lifeblood,” he continued. For so many years, his enthusiasm, zeal, and boundless spirit have brought us so much joy and satisfaction. We would like to offer our deepest sympathies to his wife and their small family, and we promise to support them in their time of need. We also extend our sincere condolences to his friends, colleagues at RBC, and extended family.