The West Country club announced the tragic news on Saturday morning
Clifton RFC have announced the sad passing of former Bristol Rugby captain Matt Salter at the age of just 49.
Salter captained Bristol for four seasons and was included in the Guinness Premiership Dream Team in 2006.
He appeared in both codes of the game, playing professionally for London Broncos and Leeds.
After hanging up his boots, the forward went into coaching and served as head coach at Clifton RFC and director of rugby at Clifton College.
Clifton said Salter would be “greatly missed across the Clifton and wider Bristol rugby community” having had a huge impact on the game in the area.
In a statement, the club wrote: “Former Bristol Rugby captain and long-serving Clifton RFC Head Coach who dedicated his life to the game and to developing players across Bristol.
“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.
“A fuller tribute to Matt and his contribution to the game will follow in the coming days.”
Tributes have been paid on social media following the news.
Plymouth Albion RFC wrote: “Plymouth Albion is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Clifton RFC Head Coach Matt Salter. Matt made a significant contribution to rugby and was widely respected within the game. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone at Clifton during this difficult time.”
Rugby writer Andrew Baldock commented: “This is truly shocking news. A fine player and captain who was one of the most consistent performers in English rugby’s top flight. Thoughts with Matt’s family and friends.”
Bristol Bears added their tribute, saying: “Bristol Bears is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of legendary former captain, Matt Salter at the age of just 49. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone at @cliftonrugby.”