Former Wales head coach Warren Gatland has opened his heart about the devastating loss of his daughter, Shauna. Born with spina bifida, Shauna passed away at just four months old in 1992. Gatland shares how this tragedy profoundly impacted his life, shaping both his personal journey and coaching career.
During an emotional chat on The Dom Harvey podcast, Gatland spoke about the heartbreak and how it took years to come to terms with the loss. He candidly recalled being on a rugby trip in Australia when his daughter died, a moment that left him shaken but eventually led to a shift in his outlook on life. He says, “She was our firstborn. It was challenging. When she was born in hospital, I didn’t realise but the midwife and nurses were crying.”
Despite the sorrow, Gatland admits that Shauna’s memory instilled in him a ‘family first’ mindset, crucial to his approach as a rugby coach. “I’ve always spoken about the importance of family. If things are alright at home, you get a much better product on the field,” Gatland reflects.
The loss also paved the way for joy, as he and his wife, Trudi, welcomed two more children, Gabby and Bryn. Gatland finds solace in the continuity of family, saying he often talks to his kids about their late sister, highlighting how their existence was partially shaped by Shauna’s brief life.
To honour Shauna, the Gatland family lights candles on her birthday in January and again in May, marking her passing. “It’s something that’s always there,” Gatland says. “Time may heal, but you never forget.”
Gatland’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of cherishing family, both in personal life and professional pursuits. He believes that understanding one’s priorities allows for a balanced and successful life, a philosophy that has clearly influenced his illustrious career in rugby.