RIP Dale Tucker

December 18, 2023
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Everyone at Wales Rugby League was really shocked to hear about the sudden passing of former Wales Dragonhearts and Wales U19 international Dale Tucker, aged just 32.

Hailing from Newport, Dale last played for Torfaen Tigers in 2021 and his last ever sports match was this recent Saturday when he turned out for Newport Saracens in their WRU League East 4 win over Bedwellty.

Dale started his rugby league as a junior with Newport Titans and won one U19 cap for Wales when he came on as a substitute in our 30-6 win over Scotland U19 in 2009. He went on to make four appearances for Wales Dragonhearts in 2011-12, playing in all three games in 2011 as Wales won the “grand slam”, beating England, Ireland and Scotland (pictured), helping them win that year’s Community Four Nations title. His performances ensured that he won the Wales Dragonhearts “Young Player of the Year” award in 2011. Also in 2012, he played for East Wales against West Wales, something his younger brother Jamie emulated three years later.

Following Newport Titans’ folding, he continued to play for Torfaen Tigers and was a regular try scorer in their exploits in both English and Welsh competitions (see one of his tries for Torfaen against West Wales Raiders below). In rugby union, he played for Newport Saracens for over a decade, with the club describing him as “one of the finest to ever wear red and black”, but did turn out three times for Ebbw Vale in their WRU Challenge Cup campaign in 2016-17.

Tigers’ chairman Rob Davies, who both coached and played alongside Dale, said: “Dale was a great player, a top bloke, one of the best, and he’ll be sadly missed by everyone at the club.

“I encourage everyone, especially at this time of year when times can be tough, to talk to a trusted friend. If you’re feeling low, a problem shared could be a problem halved. Don’t be silent.”

Our heartfelt condolences go out to all of his family and friends.

Dale Tucker 06/03/1991-17/12/2023

Community RL, Obituaries