Star News
Robbie Millward, son of ex-Saints coach Ian, died from sudden adult death syndrome
6:20pm Monday 20th February 2012
THE 19-year-old son of former Saints coach Ian Millward died from sudden adult death syndrome (SADs), it was confirmed today.
Robbie Millward, a familiar figure at Knowsley Road during his father’s successful period in charge between 2000 and 2005, was taken ill at his home in Leigh on Sunday morning and rushed to the Royal Bolton Hospital where he died.
Ian, now head coach at Castleford, said his son died of SADs, which results in a massive heart attack.
Messages of condolence have been sent from Saints and many of Millward’s former players from that era, when Robbie was often pictured at his father’s side.
The former Leigh, St Helens and Wigan boss in his first season with Castleford, was returning to England with his team following Saturday's match against Catalan Dragons in Perpignan when he heard the news.
He issued the following statement on Monday: "On behalf of all our family, we would like to thank everybody for their kind messages of support, especially the rugby league family from both the UK and Australia.
"The messages have been of comfort in this time of great sadness.
"Robbie was a healthy young boy who died from a condition called sudden adult death syndrome, which comprises of a massive heart attack.
"The sudden nature of his death is making it even harder for us to deal with.
"Instead of flowers, we ask any well-wishers to donate to the British Heart Foundation."
The Rugby Football League has extended its condolences.
"On behalf of the whole rugby league community, I would like to express our deepest sympathy to Ian, his family and Robbie's friends at this terrible news," said RFL chairman Richard Lewis.
"The thoughts of everyone involved in the sport are with the Millward family and friends at this very sad time."