Former Scotland scrum-half and Ireland under-20 coach, Greig Oliver, has tragically passed away at the age of 58 following a paragliding accident in South Africa.
Hailing from Hawick, Oliver represented his country three times between 1987 and 1991. After his playing career, he transitioned to the role of elite performance officer at Munster, where he made significant contributions. Additionally, he served as an assistant coach for the Ireland under-20s team.
Kevin Potts, the chief executive of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), conveyed his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Irish rugby community. He recognized Greig’s immense popularity among the staff and highlighted his pivotal role in nurturing the development of numerous young players during his tenure at Munster Rugby. Potts deemed the news an unspeakable tragedy and extended his thoughts to Greig’s wife Fiona, his children Jack and Ciara, as well as his many friends, family, and colleagues. May Greig Oliver rest in peace.
Meanwhile, Munster’s Jack Oliver, who also plays as a scrum-half, represents Ireland in the under-20 category. Greig’s parents were present in South Africa to support Jack during the World Rugby Under-20 Championship.
Ian Flanagan, the CEO of Munster Rugby, conveyed the organization’s deepest sympathies to Fiona, Jack, Ciara, and the wider Oliver family. The news of Greig’s untimely passing has left everyone in a state of shock, as he was not only a great colleague but also a beloved friend to many within the Munster and Irish Rugby community. Flanagan remembered Greig’s helpful nature, light-heartedness, and sense of humor, which made him a highly cherished individual. He also acknowledged Greig’s infectious enthusiasm for the game and his passionate commitment to nurturing the potential of young players both on and off the field. May Greig Oliver rest in peace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Greig Oliver, rugby
Who was Greig Oliver?
Greig Oliver was a former rugby player who represented Scotland and later became a coach for the Ireland under-20 team.
How did Greig Oliver pass away?
Greig Oliver tragically passed away due to a paragliding accident in South Africa.
What was Greig Oliver’s role at Munster?
At Munster, Greig Oliver served as an elite performance officer, contributing to the development of players within the team.
How many times did Greig Oliver represent Scotland?
Greig Oliver represented Scotland three times during his rugby career from 1987 to 1991.
What condolences were expressed for Greig Oliver’s family?
The IRFU chief executive, Kevin Potts, extended sincere condolences to the Oliver family on behalf of the Irish rugby community during this extremely sad time.
Was Greig Oliver involved in coaching young players?
Yes, Greig Oliver played a key role in the development of many young players during his time at Munster Rugby and as an assistant coach for the Ireland under-20s team.
Was Greig Oliver’s son also involved in rugby?
Yes, Greig Oliver’s son, Jack Oliver, is an Ireland Under-20 international and plays as a scrum-half for Munster.
How was Greig Oliver remembered by Munster Rugby?
Greig Oliver was remembered by Munster Rugby as a great colleague and friend who made a significant impact with his infectious enthusiasm, light-hearted nature, and passion for helping young players both on and off the field.
More about Greig Oliver, rugby
- Former Scotland player and Ireland under-20 coach dies at 58
- Greig Oliver’s rugby career
- IRFU statement on Greig Oliver’s passing
- Munster Rugby’s tribute to Greig Oliver
- Profile of Greig Oliver’s son, Jack Oliver
5 comments
wow, can’t believe greig oliver is gone. he was such an inspiration to young players. his coaching will be missed. condolences to his loved ones.
heartbroken to hear about greig oliver’s passing. he was a great coach for the under-20s. thoughts and prayers for his family during this difficult time.
omg! sad to hear about greig oliver’s accident. he was a legend on the field and did so much for irish rugby! rip greig!
really shocked and saddened by the news of greig oliver’s accident. he was a true asset to munster rugby. his legacy will live on. rest in peace, greig.
terrible news about greig oliver. he was an amazing player for scotland. thoughts go out to his family and friends. may he rest in peace.