She was affectionately known as ‘Shibby’ and won 19 caps for Scotland
Scottish rugby has been left reeling after the tragic news that Scotland international rugby player Siobhan Cattigan has died at the age of just 26.
Scottish Rugby announced the news on Tuesday night and offered their condolences to her friends and family.
The 26-year-old earned 19 caps for the national side between 2018 and 2021 and played for her local team Stirling County RFC.
She started all three of Scotland’s matches in the back row during this year’s Six Nations tournament. Her most recent appearance for the national side came in September in a World Cup qualifier against Spain.
A statement from Stirling County RFC said: “It’s with a heavy heart we pass on the news of the tragic passing of Siobhan (Shibby) on Friday 26th November.
“Shibby has been a big part of County for many years and will be hugely missed by everyone at the club. She was central to the development of women’s rugby within the club and an inspiration to the girls in the youth section.
“Shibby was a teammate and friend and we deeply mourn her loss. Our love, thoughts & heartfelt condolences are with Shibby’s family at this devastating time. We very much hope their privacy will be respected by everyone as they deal with their tragic loss.”
Scottish Rugby also paid tribute, saying: “We are deeply saddened to hear Scotland international Siobhan Cattigan has died.”
Along with paying tribute to the player, they added that “specialist Scottish Rugby employees are now providing ongoing support to those most closely affected.”
Cattigan had studied Criminology and Sociology at the University of Stirling before going on to receive a Master’s degree in Sports Psychology. During her studies she captained the university’s rugby side to victory in the 2016/17 BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) league.
Scottish Rugby is deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Scotland international and @StirlingCounty player Siobhan Cattigan.
➡️ https://t.co/txAVOHsqMs pic.twitter.com/l13wtlOYl4
— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) November 30, 2021
