TRIBUTES have been paid to a talented rugby player who tragically passed away last week at the age of 22.

Maxwell Lloyd Davies, son of Tracey and Lloyd Davies and brother to Georgia, Jasmine and Rudy, tragically passed away on Thursday 9th August.

Issuing a tribute to Max, a?spokesman from Monmouth RFC described him as a “talented” player and said he will be sorely missed.

“Max had been suffering with depression for some time, which ultimately got the better of him, despite his best efforts to fight the illness, with the wholehearted support of his family, close friends and medical team.

“In the 22 years that he lived, Max had a great impact on those that he came into contact with. Always the life and soul of every party and gathering – a real prankster who would make light of the most mundane of situations. Max was always willing to help those in need and those that were in a less fortunate position and was always a great supporter of local and family charity initiatives.

“Max was a talented rugby player and had a great passion for all sports. He played rugby at all age levels whilst being educated at Monmouth School for Boys, including two seasons as first choice scrum half for the First XV. Max played an instrumental role whilst playing for his beloved town club, Monmouth RFC, captaining all age groups up to under 16s and taking an active role with the youth team when possible. Max assisted his father Lloyd in all of his endeavours off the field in his role as chairman and achieved his Level Two WRU Coaching status to help coach the youngsters and his younger brother Rudy at the club.

“Max studied Media Studies at Christ Church University in Canterbury, where he once again represented the First XV at number nine, helping them to numerous successes and varsity match wins. Most recently Max will be remembered for his exploits this season for the League Championship winning Monmouth First XV, helping the team to victory in WRU League Division 3A East, with 11 tries in 12 league appearances for the club.

“Max’s hard warrior like physicality betrayed his sensitive side, with his love of animals, cheesy music and musicals. Max embodied all the values of a true gentleman and will undoubtedly leave a lifelong legacy in everyone’s hearts.

“Max was a son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many and will be sorely missed by everyone lucky enough to have known him.”

Senior Monmouth RFC players met at the Clubhouse on Saturday to raise a glass in tribute to Max, and a number of comments of support were received by the club from Monmouth and further afield, including Monmouth Town FC, Monmouth Cricket Club, Chepstow RFC, Abergavenny RFC and Usk RFC.