Following the tragic passing of 31-year-old Lions lock Hyron Andrews on tour in France, the global rugby community has expressed deep sorrow and support for his surviving family.
Andrews leaves behind his wife, Maiglin Andrews, and their two young sons, Hendrix and Emerson.
Who Is Maiglin Andrews?
While the couple kept a relatively private personal life, key details highlight their background and story together:
- Background & Profession: Maiglin is an American medical practitioner specializing in emergency medicine, originally hailing from Ironwood, Michigan.
- How They Met: The pair met in Durban while Maiglin was studying in South Africa.
- Long-Distance Journey: After navigating a long-distance relationship for over six years, Hyron proposed in Ireland in September 2021. Maiglin relocated to Durban full-time in December 2021.
- Wedding & Family: The couple tied the knot in July 2022 at the BlueBridge Event Centre in Grawn, Northern Michigan, and share two sons, Hendrix and Emerson.
Official Statements & Tragedy Details
- Lions Condolences: In an official statement, the Lions expressed their sorrow: “Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go to Hyron’s wife, Maiglin, their young sons, and the entire Andrews family. We hold them in our thoughts during this time of unimaginable grief and ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn.”
- Circumstances: Andrews was found unresponsive at the team’s training base on Île de Ré, France, on Friday, 16 October. Emergency responders attended to him in cardiorespiratory arrest. While initial reports cited a heart attack, SA Rugby noted he passed away following an accident on duty, with an investigation ongoing by French authorities.
- Tribute Match: The Lions decided to fulfill their opening Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle on Saturday, 17 October, to play in honor of their late teammate.
