All Blacks pay tribute to head of security Logan Cadwallader after sudden death
The All Blacks have posted a tribute for their head of security Logan Cadwallader, who died suddenly in the team hotel in Edinburgh.
“Protector”, “caring”, “kind-hearted”, “selfless” and “service” are some of the words players and staff used to describe Cadwallader, who had been part of the All Blacks environment for 10 years, travelling with the team throughout that time and who was a much-loved and respected member of the group.
In a video on the team’s official Instagram account, players shared their thoughts on Cadwallader after being asked to describe him in just one word.
“Lots of genuine care. A great man,” lock Josh Lord said, while prop Ethan de Groot added: “Just a bloody all-round good bloke.”
“I think it’s ‘safe’ when Logan’s around. There’s these safeness that you feel around him. He always has your best interests. He was just so loyal and I’ll miss him,” Richie Mo’unga added.
Talking to media today, All Blacks assistant coach Mike Blair said Cadwallader’s death has been a huge shock for the team as they prepare for Sunday’s clash with Scotland.
“We’ve had a tough couple of days. Logan was a big part of our lives for 10 years. Very close with the players and management. Obviously a huge shock.”
A statement from New Zealand Rugby yesterday said Cadwallader died following a medical event at the team hotel.
Cadwallader served in the New Zealand Army and the New Zealand Special Air Service Regiment (NZSAS), with deployments to some of the world’s most demanding environments, including Bosnia, East Timor, Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands. His service to his country, and the values he carried from it, were reflected in everything he did for the team.
Sports Minister Mark Mitchell yesterday paid his respects to Cadwallader, sharing a photo of the pair together at an Anzac Day ceremony in Coatesville.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I acknowledge the sudden passing of Logan (Caddy) Cadwallader while with the All Blacks in Edinburgh,” Mitchell wrote.
“This photo was taken at our Anzac Dawn ceremony in Coatesville this year. Logan is on the right wearing his service medals. This is a special event every year for me and part of the tradition is to go to the Black Cottage for breakfast post ceremony.
“Part of our group includes Defence Force and police veterans. Logan’s service to our country was through our New Zealand Defence Forces. He was at the vanguard of that service, where often the greatest risk and sacrifice is carried.
“Next Anzac Day won’t be the same without you, Caddy. We will be toasting you.”
In a statement, All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie said the team were struggling to come to terms with the news.
“Logan has been a big part of the All Blacks family for a long time. He was the ultimate team man, loved and trusted by all and a true professional. He looked after all of us, players and staff, and he was a good mate to many in this team.
“We are all devastated. As a team, we will honour Logan and the legacy he has left on the All Blacks.”
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster described Cadwallader as a “valued and trusted member of the management group over the past decade, and he will be greatly missed by everyone who worked alongside him”.
“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this very difficult time,” Lancaster added.
New Zealand Rugby is supporting his family, as well as All Blacks players and staff, he said.