Munster coach Greig Oliver dies in holiday accident
Munster Elite Player Development Officer Greig Oliver has passed away.
Munster Elite Development Officer Greig Oliver has died in a paragliding accident in South Africa.
Greig was in Cape Town to support his son Jack at the U20 Rugby World Cup.
Oliver played in two Rugby World Cups for Scotland before moving to Ireland with his family in 2007.
He became Elite Player Development Officer with Munster in 2011 and went on to hold roles with the Ireland under-20s, Munster ‘A’ and various academy sides.
He was also a beloved presence at Garryowen FC where he once held the Director of Rugby position.
Munster Rugby pay tribute to Greig Oliver.
Munster Rugby CEO, Ian Flanagan, said: “On behalf of Munster Rugby, I would like to express our deepest sympathies to Greig’s wife Fiona, son Jack, daughter Ciara, and the wider Oliver family.
“We are all in a state of shock following Greig’s tragic passing. He was a great colleague and friend to so many and will be dearly missed across the Munster and Irish Rugby community.
“Greig made his presence felt each day, he was always there to provide a helping hand and was a hugely popular character with his light-hearted nature and sense of humour.
“He had an infectious enthusiasm for the game and was incredibly passionate about helping young players be the best they can be on and off the field.
“May he rest in peace.”
Greig Oliver.
Commenting on the news, IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts said; “On behalf of the Irish rugby community, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Oliver family at this extremely sad time.
“Greig was a hugely popular member of staff and played a key role in the development of many young players during his time at Munster Rugby.
“Today’s news is an unspeakable tragedy and our thoughts are with Greig’s wife Fiona, children Jack and Ciara, and his many friends, family and colleagues. May he rest in peace.”
Munster Rugby and the IRFU say they are liaising directly with Greig’s family, providing them with any assistance and support required at this time.
