Shock over death of young Angel

A YOUTH team player at Ryman Premier League club Tonbridge Angels sadly passed away in his sleep on Sunday morning due to “suspected heart failure,” writes Stephen McCartney.

The death of Jack Maddams, 17, who had played for the Angels youth teams for the past three years, has come as a shock to everybody at the Longmead Stadium club.

Tributes have been pouring into the club’s fans’ forum as people come to terms with the news, a youngster with a very bright future both on and off the pitch.

Roger Maddams, the players father, is understandably stunned with the tragedy.

“Jack died peacefully and painlessly in his sleep on Sunday morning,” he said. “The coroner has indicated that, although inconclusive at the moment, suspected heart failure is the cause.

“He as a super fit, super strong lad who went to bed happy and with a smile on his face.

“We are struggling to come to terms with this but are determined to celebrate the immense achievements he packed into his short life.

“He represented Gillingham, Tonbridge and Kent with pride, almost made it into the England Schoolboys national squad, ran for the County and got A star marks for art and media at grammar school in Rochester, and he was a fantastic rugby back.

“Jack would have been 18 next week on 8^th April. We are holding the service for him that day instead at The Garden of Remembrance, Bobbing, nr Sittingbourne ME9 8GZ at 10am. All are welcome.

“We will be discussing a fitting bursary type memorial with his school Sir Joseph Williamson of Rochester.

“England schoolboys will be holding a minute silence and wear armbands in Jack’s honour at their home international on Friday.”

Mr Maddams appreciates the support that shocked Tonbridge Angels fans have given the family.

He added: “I don’t know too many of them but the warmth and kindness we are receiving in these tragic times is much appreciated.”

A club statement added: “Our deepest sympathy goes to the parents and family of Jack.”

www.kentishfootball.co.uk would like to offer our sincere condolences to all involved.

Quotes taken from www.tonbridgeafc.co.uk/forum