Carter on compassionate leave

 

Carter will return to northern New South Wales for Tooth's funeral and to offer his support to the family.

 

Tooth, 25, was playing for the Quirindi Lions – Carter's junior club – in a club match on Saturday when he collapsed after a tackle.

 

He received emergency treatment at the ground before being flown to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, where he died on Sunday.

 

Wallabies second row Carter has been given time to grieve and won't be named in the Brumbies team to play against the Highlanders on Friday.

 

The Brumbies had no hesitation allowing Carter to take time away from rugby to return home and come to grips with the loss of his close friend.

 

Tooth's death hit hard around the rugby community, with Australian Rugby Union Chief Executive Bill Pulver and NSW Rugby Union Chairman Nick Farr-Jones both offering support to Tooth's family and friends.

 

"At a time like this, rugby takes a back seat. From our point of view family is extremely important," said Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham.

 

"Player welfare is extremely important and it's right for Sam and his family to be up there with the current situation."

 

A crisis counselor from the ARU was expected to arrive in Quirindi on Tuesday night to support Tooth's Lions' teammates.

 

Carter's family still lives in Quirindi and the rugby club described Tooth as a "kind hearted and fine young man".

 

The Brumbies are planning for Carter to remain at home for as long as required.

 

Source: Canberra Times