TRIBUTES have been paid to a "talented" young rugby star who was found dead aged just 17.
Logan Luker, from Tonypandy, Wales, was discovered by his mother after taking his own life in November 2021, despite having no history of mental health concerns, an inquest heard.
The hearing at Pontypridd Coroner's Court was told that he had enjoyed a happy childhood, but had expressed that he felt low in the weeks running up to the tragedy.
This was thought to be because he was yet to secure a job.
His family described him as a "special person" and "the best son", adding that he "gave his heart and soul" to the game he loved.
Logan captained his local rugby club's youth team and was a "true gentleman", his loved ones said.
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The family's statement read: "He was the best son and brother and we loved him so much. He was a true young gentleman who tried to make everyone smile.
"Please, please if anyone is struggling – please speak out because we as a family are broken and we wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what we are."
A tribute from Penygraig RFC, Logan's club, said: "Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who played alongside him.
"Logan was a well-liked and highly-respected young rugby player. The tragic news of his passing comes as a huge shock to everyone who knows him.
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"Logan was a very talented player who gave his heart and soul to playing rugby. He was fearless on the field, would run at anything in his way, and would always get back up be ready to go again at any stage of the game.
"Penygraig RFC will not be the same without him. The tributes being laid at the gates of the club only go to show the esteem in which he was held."
Coroner Patricia Morgan returned a verdict of suicide.
She said that there was "no evidence of third-party involvement" and that it was "likely" that the teen intended to end his own life.
You’re Not Alone
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It's the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You're Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You're Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
- Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
- Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
- Movember, www.uk.movember.com
- Anxiety UK www.anxietyuk.org.uk, 03444 775 774 Monday-Friday 9.30am-10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
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