Remembering Zyana "Zy" Thomas-Flores: A Legacy of Fierce Joy and Community 💖

‍Seattle Rugby Club Mourns Beloved Teammate and Friend
The Seattle Rugby Club community is heartbroken as we mourn the untimely passing of one of our own, Zyana "Zy" Thomas-Flores. Zy was more than just a talented player; she was a fierce spirit, a witty friend, a passionate teammate, and a deeply loved member of the Seattle rugby family. The profound loss is felt throughout the club and the wider community she touched.

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A Spirit that Lives On
Zy's infectious energy and vibrant personality were unmatched. Described as a "wicked smart, badass, witty, loving human," she embodied a dynamic spirit that will live forever in the hearts of her teammates. Whether she was carrying the ball with sheer determination as an 8-man pick or delivering a witty comment with a boisterous laugh, Zy was always all in, giving 150% on and off the pitch.

Her talent for rugby first drew people to her, but it was her love for people and her commitment to the community that made her a legend. Zy lived by the mantra that rugby should be a community of inclusiveness and belonging. She embraced every teammate, meeting them exactly where they were, and was always there for a friend, whether they wanted to go out, stay in, or just needed her support.

“The loss of a teammate and friend is never easy, especially one who could always make you laugh, was witty, and had the best game-day face you would ever see!”

We are stronger, wiser, and more beautiful because Zy was in our lives. We will continue to honor her legacy—not only by taking the rugby field, but by living with the same fierce joy and unwavering connection that she brought to every moment.

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We Are #WithYou: Finding Strength and Support
In times of heavy grief and profound loss, it is vital to remember the importance of mental health. The sadness and shock that accompany the loss of a vibrant person like Zy can be overwhelming. As a club, we want to reiterate that you do not have to carry this weight alone.

Just as Zy embraced her teammates, we encourage every member of our community and anyone struggling to reach out for help. Please know that seeking support is a sign of strength and courage. There are resources available right now, and taking the first step to talk to someone is an act of self-care.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please utilize these resources:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S. and Canada)
  
  
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  

Let's honor Zy's spirit of community by looking out for one another, communicating openly, and ensuring that no one feels alone during this difficult time.

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Additional Resources for Those in Hard Situations

National Numbers

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
  
  
• National Crisis Texting Line: Text HOME to 741741
  
  
• Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860
  
  
• The Trevor Project: Call 866-488-7386
  
  
• The Trevor Project: Text START 678678
  
  

Seattle/WA Numbers and Contact Info

• King County number for drug, alcohol, or mental health crisis: 206-461-3222
  
  
• Crisis Connections: WA relay: 711; Pierce County: 1-800-576-7764; Southwest Washington: 1-800-626-8137; King County: 1-866-427-4747; North Central Washington: 1-800-852-2923
  
  
• Crisis Connections can help individuals with anxiety, loneliness, loss of income, job loss, abuse, relationships, symptoms of mental illness, health concerns, and thoughts of suicide
  
  
• Seattle Children’s Outpatient Psychiatry Triage Line: 206-987-216
  
  

Mutual Aid Resources

• Super Familia King County: Email kcsuperfamilia@gmail.com | Instagram: SuperFamilia_KC | Venmo: @Super_Familia
  
  
• The Seattle Community Fridge: LinkTree | Fridge Locations | Donate
  
  
• Food Not Bombs: Seattle Chapter: Email hello@seattlefoodnotbombs.org | Phone: 253-237-6196 | Instagram | Facebook
  
  
• Beacon Hill Mutual Aid: Email hocsbeaconhill@gmail.com | Instagram | Patreon | Cash App: $HOCSBeaconHill2 | PayPal: @HOCSBeaconHill
  
  
• Domestic Violence Confidential Resource Line: 206-299-2500
  
  
• King County Housing Resources: 1-800-621-4636 or 211
  
  

The Seattle Rugby Club is still mourning the loss of an amazing person and teammate. We are all sending love and grace to every person who had the pleasure of meeting this incredible human during this time.

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