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A young and eager Motueka cricketer who died suddenly has been remembered as a “treasured student” and “natural spin bowler”.
TK Hadzhikostov unexpectedly died early on Saturday.
Police said they attended a sudden death in the community of Brooklyn, near Motueka.
In a post on social media,the Motueka Cricket Club said TK had done everything he possibly could to fit as much cricket as possible into his young life since joining the club three years ago.
“From attending nearly every single training, to dressing up as a cricket player at his school’s dress-up day and getting his mum to learn every aspect of cricket she could so he could practise at home,” the club wrote.
“TK loved being a part of the Motueka Cricket Club and more often than not could be seen wearing his treasured No 12 club top with pride.”
TK had been excited about moving into a new house with a backyard where he could finally practise cricket whenever he wanted to.
The club said TK was a “natural spin bowler”, whose favourite cricket experience was when the Central Stags and Central Hinds visited – even managing to catch one of them out.
“TK often observed other spin bowlers’ technique just so he could practise over and over again, even videoing himself so he could critique his action and improve his technique.
“TK is going to be missed immensely by his teammates, coaches and their families who all got to witness his immense passion for cricket.”
Brooklyn School, which describes itself as a Year 0-8 primary school west of Motueka, also acknowledged the loss on its website.
“It is with the deepest sadness that the Brooklyn School board shares the devastating news of the tragic loss of one of our treasured students, TK Hadzhikostov.
“TK was a valued and much-loved member of our Brooklyn School community, and this loss is being felt deeply by students, staff, and families across our school.
“At this incredibly difficult time, we know that our wider Brooklyn community will join with us in sending our love, thoughts, and prayers to TK’s parents and extended family.”
The school said the loss would have a profound impact on the community.
“Over the coming days, there will be a range of emotions experienced by students, staff, and families as we come to terms with this loss.
“Our focus will be on supporting one another with care, compassion, and kindness as we navigate this extremely sad time together.”
A Ministry of Education “wrap-around team” was on site on Monday to “provide guidance and support for students, staff, and whānau who may need it”, the school said.
