CI basketball in mourning after death of Jersey player
The senior men’s basketball inter-insular ended in tragedy when Jersey player Guillaume Hoareau collapsed on the court at Fort Regent on Saturday afternoon.
Jersey players and officials rushed to help the player. Jersey Basketball said yesterday that he suffered a cardiac arrest on the court and died shortly afterwards in hospital.
Jersey players screened Mr Hoareau as he received treatment and spectators were asked to leave the court area. The match, into the second half, was abandoned, and shocked Guernsey players went to the dressing rooms and stayed there for some time.
His family gave permission for the Jersey Basketball Association to make a statement yesterday afternoon, where it expressed sincere condolences to his wife and young family and pledged to support them.
‘The loss of Guillaume is a terrible shock to us all. G was a pivotal part of our basketball community,’ said JBA president Paul Milbank.
‘He was passionate about basketball and improving the game in the island.
‘He was an inspiration and mentor to both our senior and junior players. Beyond his official roles, G was our friend, our brother, and the lifeblood of our community.
‘His energy, passion and huge spirit have given us so much enjoyment and pride over so many years.’
Mr Hoareau, who had represented Jersey at Island Games level, was also the lead coach of the JBA’s minis section.
The JBA said Mr Hoareau was not known to have any underlying health issues and was considered fit and healthy.
A number of Guernsey players and officials were quick to pay tribute on social media.
The Guernsey Basketball Association said: ‘Our thoughts are with our friends in Jersey following the shocking events of yesterday. This has shocked the whole of the basketball community.
‘We offer our support and stand together with Jersey Basketball during this tough time.’
