Kristine Andersen – Kansas Jayhawk Rugby Player Passes

On Tuesday, October 9 the Kansas Jayhawks Women’s Rugby Football Club learned that Kristine Andersen, our teammate, friend, and sister, passed away suddenly on Sunday at the age of twenty-one. Kristine was a senior in the English Department at the University of Kansas and began playing rugby for the Kansas Jayhawks in the fall of 2009, playing for the Heart of America Collegiate All-Star team in 2010-2012.

She is remembered by those who knew her as ‘full of life, bright, funny, up for any challenges and motivated’ and for her beautiful smile and loving soul. That motivation to always do her best was honored at the team’s Spring 2012 banquet when, as a veteran of six seasons, she was chosen by her teammates to receive the award she desired the greatest: Most Improved.

The outpouring of love and support from the rugby community during such a difficult time has overwhelmed us. Ruggers having played with or against Kristine, knowing her for years or days, have sent their love and sympathy to her loved ones, both the Andersen family and her Kansas rugby family.

If you would like to send card or flowers to the team please send them to KJWRFC, 1125 Cynthia Street, Lawrence, KS 66049. If you would like to send cards or flowers to Kristine’s family please send them to Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home at 14275 Blackbob Road, Olathe, KS 66062. The family requests that any memorial donations are made to your local Veteran’s Service Organization.

On behalf of our team, I would like to thank everyone who has sent their condolences to the Jayhawks and Kristine’s family, and also to extend our deepest sympathies to her loved ones. She affected our lives as deeply as only a unique soul like hers could. Ingrained in our hearts and minds, we will always love and remember her.

Rugby love,
Shelby Williams
KJWRFC