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Polina Krakowska, who represented Poland in rugby and competed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has died at the age of 25 and tributes have poured in from team-mates, coaches and friends
A former international rugby player has tragically passed away aged just 25, prompting an outpouring of moving tributes from her ex-coach, teammates and close friends.
The death of Polina Krakowska, who previously represented Poland’s national rugby team, was announced by her former side Black Roses Poznan. No details surrounding her cause of death have been disclosed publicly.
Polina, who subsequently took up jiu-jitsu, is understood to have passed away in Poznan, Poland, where she resided alongside her family.
Originally from Ukraine, Krakowska eventually obtained Polish nationality and established herself as a pivotal player in Poznan’s women’s rugby scene. She featured across multiple campaigns for Black Roses Poznan throughout what are recalled as among the most triumphant periods in the club’s female division.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 15, Black Roses Poznan announced: “It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the passing of Polina Krakowska (Kharlamova). Together with the entire club, we express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the family and loved ones.
An avalanche of tributes has emerged from teammates, mentors, and companions, according to NeedToKnow. Coach Makina reflected: “These were the heydays of our women’s section.
“Pola was a very promising player, being called up to the Polish national team. In 2017, she played in, among other events, the European Under-18 Championships and the Olympic Hopes Tournament.
“She retired from rugby in the 2019/2020 season, but remained in Poznan, where she lived with her entire family.”
A friend shared: “Her warmth, openness, and unconditional willingness to help were absolutely exceptional. Our colleague, and for many, a friend and soulmate, leaves behind a void, but also many important memories that we will cherish.”
Krakowska represented Poland in significant youth tournaments in 2017, including the European Under-18 Championships and the Olympic Hopes Tournament.
In the same year, she participated in Poland’s inaugural women’s 15-a-side rugby match, which took place in Ruda Śląska during the Polish-Irish Festival, against Ireland’s Arklow RFC Amazons.
Despite retiring from competitive rugby in the 2019/2020 season, Krakowska stayed active in sports, training as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and representing the Gracie Barra Poznan Academy.
Outside of sport, she carved out a professional career in healthcare, earning a master’s degree in physiotherapy from the Poznan University of Education and Therapy, and operating her own orthopaedic and neurological physiotherapy and massage practice.
Polina Krakowska’s funeral is set to take place on Friday, December 19.
