Statement – Maddy Lawrence

UWE Bristol: “Following the inquest, the University would like to once again express its deepest condolences and sympathies to Maddy’s family, friends and teammates. Everyone in the UWE Bristol community was profoundly shocked and saddened by the loss of Maddy, a popular first year student and talented UWE Women’s Rugby player. Maddy very much remains in our thoughts and her legacy lives on through the UWE Women’s Rugby club and the memorial rugby matches held at the University in Maddy’s honour each year.”

Rachel Champion, 2023-24 President of UWE Women’s Rugby Union: “Maddy was a ray of sunshine, always wanting to learn and try new experiences – she had so much kindness in her heart and carried her wonderfully contagious smile everywhere she went. Losing Maddy has left a hole in all our hearts. However, as a club we find comfort and come together as a family in remembering her through supporting Maddy’s Mark. Maddy’s Mark was set up in her honour as a charity by her family to support women’s rugby and mental health, two things she felt so passionately about.”

UWE Women’s Rugby Union: “Maddy's legacy is firmly imprinted on our club, touching every player who passes through our ranks, whether past, present, or future. She was not only a player but an embodiment of the spirit of rugby, which is so much more than a game to us. It's a place where friendships are forged, laughter fills the air and, of course, there's always room for a good dance.

“In every scrum, on every pitch, and in every heart, Maddy lives on, reminding us to embrace life fully, cherish each moment and, most importantly, never stop dancing, smiling and being yourself because Maddy never did.”