Former Bristol captain Matt Salter dies aged 49

Clifton RFC has announced the death of former Bristol Rugby captain Matt Salter at the age of 49.

A hugely respected figure in the Bristol rugby community, dual-code athlete Salter captained Bristol for four seasons and was named captain of the Guinness Premiership Dream Team in 2006.

He also played professionally for London Broncos and Leeds.

After retiring, the 6’4, 104kg back-five forward dedicated himself to developing young players, serving for many years as head coach at Clifton RFC and director of rugby at Clifton College.

Clifton said he “dedicated his life to the game and to developing players across Bristol”.

A club statement reads: “Clifton Rugby Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Matt Salter earlier today.

“Matt was a hugely respected figure in the Bristol rugby community. An iconic player for Bristol Rugby, where he captained the club for four seasons and was named captain of the Guinness Premiership Dream Team in 2006, he also played professionally for London Broncos and Leeds.

“Following his playing career, Matt dedicated himself to developing the next generation of players, serving for many years as Head Coach at Clifton RFC and as Director of Rugby at Clifton College.

“Matt’s impact on the game in Bristol will be felt for many years to come. As a player, captain and coach, he inspired countless teammates, players and students, and his passion for rugby and for helping others develop through the game was clear to all who worked with him. Matt will be greatly missed across the Clifton and wider Bristol rugby community.

“Everyone at Clifton Rugby Football Club sends their sincere condolences to Matt’s family, friends and all who knew him.”

Salter began his career with London & South East Schools and represented England Schools at back row against New Zealand.

Salter began his senior career with Blackheath in the 1995-96 season before spells at West Hartlepool and Bristol Shoguns, where he made 72 appearances between 2000 and 2003. He then spent a season with Leeds Tykes, playing 17 times, before returning to Bristol in 2004. During his second stint he made 78 appearances and scored 30 points before ending his professional playing career in 2009.

He also played age grade rugby league, earning selection for Great Britain Under-19s and facing New Zealand at that level.