BDCA 2023: Eaton Cricket Club’s Jake Rudd remembered as a ‘man like no other’ to everyone he came across

The South West sporting community is in mourning, following the death of Eaton Cricket Club player Jake Rudd on Saturday. The 45-year-old died following a fatal reaction to a bee sting. News of his death filtered through to Bobtails players and officials late in the afternoon, with shock and sadness engulfing them all. Eaton club president Travis Johnson described Rudd as a devoted clubman, who always lived life to the fullest. “He was a man’s man,” he said. “A legend of a bloke and was always happy. He loved life and was a very good sportsman to go with it. “He will be greatly missed everywhere, not just at the cricket club, as he was a very popular bloke. “One of Ruddy’s favourite things was to call himself president of the ‘Bomb Squad’ — a group of players at the club who were able to hit at least three sixes in a game.” Johnson confirmed both Eaton and Leschenault players would observe a minute silence in the middle of the ground prior to their clash on Saturday at the Eaton Sports Ground, as a mark of respect. Many people from within the Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association have also publicly paid tribute to Rudd — a player and person they held in extremely high regard: Clayton Caltsounis (Eaton Cricket Club) “Until next time, legend.” Leschenault Cricket Club: “The Leschenault Cricket Club extends its condolences to the family and members of the Eaton Cricket Club on the untimely passing of #largerthanlife Jake Rudd. A fierce competitor on the field, Ruddy left the competitiveness on-field.” Shehzad Gondal (Leschenault Cricket Club spinner) “RIP Ruddy. You will always be remembered. Condolences to family and the Eaton club.” Brayden Clarke (Marist Cricket Club president) “Our biggest condolences to the Rudd family and entire Eaton Cricket Club. “It’s such a shock to lose someone like that. Although I never played with him, speaking to anyone who played with Jake, they’ve said you couldn’t ask for a better fella to have in your team. “I think all of the support from the association and other clubs probably just goes to show, it doesn’t matter what shirt you wear. Whether it is Marist, Leschenault, Eaton or Colts, we are all still mates — with families, houses and jobs.” Josh Topliss (Colts Cricket Club captain): “Rest in peace legend.” Rudd is survived by his wife Natasha and two daughters, Jenna and Lacee. A GoFundMe account has been set up to ease financial stress for the Rudd family during their time of need and can be accessed via: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-rudd-family?utm_campaign=m_pd+share-sheet&utm_content=undefined&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_term=undefined.