Munster Rugby development officer John O’Neill has passed away following an illness.
The Waterford man represented Munster in the mid-eighties and played in the centre against Australia in Thomond Park in 1984, setting up the first try of the game with a kick through for Eddie O'Sullivan to score.
'Johnno' also lined out for Ireland A, scoring a try against Scotland.
During his career, John also played with Waterpark RFC leading them to Division 3 of the All-Ireland league in 2003. He also played with Highfield RFC in Cork before becoming a coach.
In a statement on their Facebook page, Waterpark RFC said:
“As a player with Waterpark and in his training role with Munster Rugby, John was a great friend to Waterpark and many of our members have been sharing fond memories of him today, he will be greatly missed. RIP Johnno.”
John then joined the Munster Rugby Development department in 2007.
In a statement, the province said he would be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends.
"Moving into coaching the proud Waterford man had a driving ambition to give back and grow and develop the game across the east of the province," the statement says.
"During his time as a Rugby Development Officer, he worked closely with the regional development squads and coached several of the current Munster squad including Jack O’Donoghue, Fineen Wycherley, Gavin Coombes, Liam Coombes, and the Academy’s Tom Ahern and Eoin O’Connor.
"Working closely with the schools and clubs across the province he also held the role of Munster Junior Head Coach for seven seasons.
"Munster Rugby would like to extend their deepest sympathies to his wife Trish, daughter Cathy, and the extended O’Neill family.
Munster CEO Ian Flanagan said:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend John O’Neill. Johnno leaves his mark thanks to the work he carried out on behalf of the province and the relations he forged with staff and volunteers across the rugby and sporting community in Waterford and beyond.
“My heartfelt sympathies go to Trish, Cathy, and Johnno’s extended family and network of friends at this time.”
Picture: INPHO/Presseye/John McIlwaine
