Tributes have been paid to a much-loved rugby coach who died at the age of 42 at the weekend following a short illness.
Following his passing, Gareth Lewis has been credited as making a "huge contribution to Welsh rugby" in a variety of different roles. As well as coaching at Caerphilly Rugby Club, Gareth also worked for the Welsh Rugby Union as both a hub officer and development officer, also serving in a similar role at the Dragons.
He also worked for Newport High School, having previously worked with Rhymney Valleys School. Earlier this year, he coached Newport Schools U15s to victory in the Morgan Griffiths Plate final at the Principality Stadium, beating Rhymney Valley 31-17.
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"Gareth was a very highly respected and valued member of staff at Newport High School," read a statement from the school. "His commitment to the development of rugby for both boys and girls was undeniable, always prepared to go the extra mile to support aspiring players. Gareth was passionate about the rugby academy and was instrumental in its progress alongside Rob Sidoli.
"Initially working as a rugby hub officer Gareth broadened his support for students in the 6th form, in particular, with university applications and with well-being and was recently offered a permanent role in the school as a pastoral support officer and rugby coach. Gareth will be sadly missed by colleagues and students."
Paying tribute to Gareth, the WRU said: "Such sad news. Our sincere condolences to Liz, Annie, Isabelle and the rest of Gareth's family and friends. Gareth made a huge contribution to Welsh rugby including in his roles as a hub officer, and before that a development office."
The Dragons, for whom Gareth worked as a development officer and U18s coach, also expressed their sadness, adding their "thoughts and condolences are with his family at this sad time".
Gareth coached with Caerphilly for a number of years, coaching the club's youth, under-21 development team and the girls' 16-18 team, the Caerphilly Tigers. His father Jeff was also the team doctor for a number of years.
In a tribute posted on social media, Caerphilly RFC said: "Our heartfelt condolences to the family of Gareth Lewis following his sudden and unexpected death.
"Gareth coached at Caerphilly for a number of years and was a well-respected member of the team. Our thoughts and love go out to Liz and their two children at this sad time."
A club spokesperson reiterated that Gareth "contributed a huge amount to the development of young players in Gwent and deserves the recognition for all of the work that he put in".
Current Wales Women international Cerys Hale also paid tribute to Gareth on social media, saying: "Really sad to read this, GL was part of my early rugby journey and a man I would always associate with Rugby in Gwent. Thoughts are with his family and friends."
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