Former Ireland women’s rugby head coach Philip Doyle has died aged 61.
It is understood Doyle was involved in a road traffic accident while travelling abroad.
Blackrock College RFC, where Doyle played and coached throughout his career, confirmed the news of his death this afternoon.
“His contribution to women’s rugby in Ireland, Scotland, Leinster, Ulster and here at Blackrock was immense,” the club said in a statement.
“Few people have done more to advance the women’s game in Ireland and fewer still have done it with such charisma, warmth, humility and generosity of spirit.”
Doyle, affectionately known as ‘Goose’, had two spells as head coach of the Ireland women’s team, initially from 2003 to 2006, before returning to the role in 2010.
It was in this second period in charge that Ireland enjoyed their greatest success, winning the Grand Slam in 2013, and sealing the title with a 6-3 win against Italy in Milan.
While they finished third in the 2014 championship, Doyle’s Ireland team achieved further history at that year’s World Cup by reaching the semi-finals.
The high point of that World Cup was a 17-14 win against the defending champions the Black Ferns, becoming the first ever Ireland international side to defeat New Zealand, with tries for Heather O’Brien and Alison Miller, and seven points from the boot of Niamh Briggs, sealing the famous win.
Doyle stepped down as head coach after that fourth-place World Cup finish, with Tom Tierney taking over as Ireland won another Six Nations title in 2015.
In 2019, Doyle was appointed head coach of Scotland’s women’s team, but stepped down in 2020 so that he could adequately shield himself during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“As a coach of countless Blackrock Women’s players, Goose, with his beloved wife Nicola, played a pioneering role in the establishment, development and success of women’s rugby within the club,” Blackrock’s statement continued.
“Fittingly, his remarkable coaching career was bookended by success at Rock, including All-Ireland League titles with the club he loved.
“Goose was far more than a list of achievements. He was a mentor, a friend, a storyteller, and a constant source of encouragement. He cared deeply about the people he coached.
“He gave players confidence, challenged them to be better, and reminded everyone around him why rugby is such a special game.”
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