Surfer Chris Davidson dies after Waratahs coach’s brother’s alleged one-punch assault

A former Australian surfing champion has died after police allege he was coward-punched by a brother of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman.

Chris Davidson started surfing at North Narrabeen Beach (pictured) and died on the NSW north coast.

The man accused of causing the death of former pro surfer Chris Davidson is the brother of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman.

Davidson, a former Australian surfing champion, died after allegedly being the victim of a one-punch assault outside a club in a NSW coastal town.

Grant Coleman is charged with assaulting Davidson causing his death outside South West Rocks Country Club in South West Rocks about 11pm on Saturday.

The 45-year-old was allegedly knocked unconscious. He was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to Kempsey Hospital but was pronounced dead a short time later.

Surfer Chris Davidson in South Africa.

A 42-year-old man was arrested at a home in South West Rocks about 12.40am and was taken to Kempsey Police Station.

Former pro surfer Chris Davidson. Picture: Instagram

Chris Davidson during his time on the world surfing circuit.

Both of the men were well known in the area. “Grant was nicknamed Grub and was a very good footballer back in the day. In fact, his brothers are involved in top level sport,’’ said a local who knew them both.

Mr Davidson was well known in the surfing community throughout Australia and was considered one of the most talented surfers going around more than a decade ago.

NSW Waratahs head coach Darren Coleman. Police allege Coleman’s brother Grant fatally coward-punched former pro surfer Chris Davidson. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

As a boy he cut his teeth surfing at North Narrabeen before touring the world.

Police have not released details of what they believe sparked the incident leading to Mr Davidson’s death.

Grant Coleman, 42, was arrested about 30 minutes after the alleged attack at a nearby address and was charged with assault causing death.

He was refused bail and is due to appear before Port Macquarie Bail Court on Sunday.

A crime scene was established at the location and was being examined by specialist forensic officers on Sunday.