Roly Meates Cause Of Death, What Happened To Roly Meates? How Did Roly Meates Die?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Jul 06, 2023
Who was Roly Meates?
Roly Meates was a former Ireland rugby coach who passed away on Wednesday after a long illness. He was a well-respected figure in the rugby community, having coached both the Leinster and Ireland rugby teams during his career.
Meates was born in Dublin in 1936 and began his rugby career as a player with Bective Rangers. He later went on to coach Bective, as well as the Leinster team in the 1980s and 1990s.
In addition to his work with Leinster, Meates was also involved with the Irish national team. He served as an assistant coach for the team during the 1980s and 1990s, and was briefly appointed head coach in 1990 following the resignation of Jim Davidson. He also served as a selector for the national team at various times throughout his career.
Roly Meates was also a respected physical education teacher. He worked at several schools throughout Ireland during his career, including Presentation College Bray, where he was head of physical education. Many of his former students credit him with instilling in them a love of sports and fitness that has stayed with them throughout their lives.
Meates was also involved with the Leinster Branch of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and served as president from 2004 to 2005. He was a well-respected figure within the organization and was known for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to promoting good sportsmanship and fair play.
Outside of rugby, Meates was involved with the IRFU Charitable Trust and was one of the Trustees responsible for monitoring the trust's activities. He was also a respected figure in the community and was known for his commitment to education and mentoring.
Meates' passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the rugby community in Ireland and beyond. Many have praised his contributions to the sport and his impact on the lives of those he coached and mentored. He will be remembered as a legendary figure in Irish rugby and a beloved member of the community.
Roly Meates Cause Of Death
Former Ireland and Leinster coach TW Roland 'Roly' Meates has passed away at the age of 85 following a prolonged illness. Known for his iconic pipe-smoking and revered as a scrum expert, Meates commanded the utmost loyalty from his dedicated followers. However, his coaching prowess extended far beyond the scrum, revolutionizing coaching techniques in Ireland.
Having studied at The High School and pursued a career as a dentist, Meates played as a prop for Dublin University, Wanderers, and Leinster, achieving notable success and earning his colors.
His coaching career, ahead of its time, began at Trinity, where he spent an incredible 30 years from 1966 to 1996. He later served two separate five-year terms as the head coach of Leinster in 1970 and 1995. In 2000, he returned to Leinster as the scrum coach for an additional seven years.
Meates also had the honor of coaching the Ireland team for two seasons from 1975 to 1977. Notably, they secured a remarkable 13-12 comeback victory over England at Twickenham in 1976 and put up strong performances against Fiji and New Zealand on tour.
Renowned for his expertise, Meates was a candidate for the head coach role with the British & Irish Lions in 1971 and 1974, demonstrating the high regard in which he was held within the rugby community.
Recalling his interview experience, Meates shared a humorous anecdote about discussing rugby strategies with Carwyn James and Roy Bish in an unexpected setting—an ice-cream shop. His astute observations during the interview demonstrated his superior knowledge of the game.
Aside from his coaching prowess, Meates was known for his witty personality and sense of fun, making him excellent company. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife, Heather, his family, and his extensive circle of friends. May he rest in peace. The funeral of Roly Meates will be held at Sandford Parish Church in Ranelagh on Tuesday, July 11th, at 11:30 am.
What Happened To Roly Meates?
The rugby community pays homage to the late Roly Meates, former coach of Leinster and Ireland, as the IRFU leads the tributes. Recognized for his lifelong dedication to Irish rugby, Meates made significant contributions as a prop player for esteemed teams like Dublin University, Wanderers, and Leinster. Transitioning into coaching, he honed his skills at Trinity, where he played a pivotal role in team preparations for three decades.
Meates also held coaching positions at Leinster, leaving an indelible mark on the team during two separate five-year periods. His coaching prowess shone brightly during his tenure with the Ireland national team from 1975 to 1977, including a remarkable comeback victory over England. Beyond coaching, Meates assumed leadership roles as chairman of the Ireland selection committee and as a revered scrum coach, hosting valuable clinics throughout the province.
With an impressive administrative portfolio, he served as president of the Leinster Branch, simultaneously coaching the province's first-ever Under-19 team. Meates' commitment extended to his involvement with the IRFU's Rugby Committee, and he held influential positions in organizations such as the Irish Universities Rugby Union and the IRFU Amateur Status and Medical Committees.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Meates received esteemed awards, including the Leinster Rugby Special Merit Award and the Tom Rooney Award from the Rugby Writers of Ireland. As Leinster and the IRFU offer heartfelt condolences, they fondly remember Roly Meates as a true legend of Irish rugby.
How Did Roly Meates Die?
The rugby world mourns the loss of the esteemed Roly Meates, former coach of the Ireland national team and Leinster. With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to this influential figure who dedicated his life to the sport. Roly Meates, affectionately known as the scrum guru, made a lasting impact on the game through his coaching prowess and administrative contributions.
Before his coaching career, Meates showcased his skills as a prop player for Dublin University, Wanderers, and Leinster. However, it was in the realm of coaching that he truly flourished. His remarkable 30-year tenure at Trinity University solidified his reputation as a meticulous and dedicated mentor. Further demonstrating his coaching acumen, Meates assumed the position of head coach for Leinster during two distinct five-year periods.
During his time at the helm of the Ireland national team from the mid-1970s, Meates led the squad to a memorable comeback victory over England at Twickenham in 1976. His expertise extended far beyond tactical strategies, as he prioritized the meticulous preparation of players, focusing on set-piece work, skills development, and physical fitness.
Particularly renowned for his mastery of scrummaging, Meates conducted valuable scrum clinics throughout his home province, sharing his knowledge and nurturing future talent. Beyond coaching, Meates left an indelible mark on Irish rugby through his administrative contributions. Serving as the chairman of the Ireland selection committee, he played a vital role in shaping the national team.
He held prestigious positions, including the presidency of the Leinster Branch and the Irish Universities Rugby Union. Meates' commitment to the sport was further evidenced by his involvement as a trustee of the IRFU Charitable Trust.
Acknowledging his outstanding contributions, Meates received esteemed accolades, including the Leinster Rugby Special Merit award and the Tom Rooney award from the Rugby Writers of Ireland. His passion for coaching extended to school teams, where he conducted training sessions and inspired the next generation of players.
The IRFU expresses its deepest condolences to Meates' family and friends during this difficult time. The committee and staff join the rugby community in remembering the remarkable legacy of Roly Meates, a revered scrum coach and a true stalwart of the sport.
A funeral service honoring Roly Meates will be held at Sandford Parish Church in Ranelagh on Tuesday, July 11th. We gather to pay our respects and celebrate the profound impact he made on the rugby fraternity.
Roly Meates Cause Of Death - FAQs
Roly Meates died on July 5, 2023, after a long illness. The cause of death has not been publicly released.
Roly Meates was a highly respected figure in Irish rugby, having served as coach of Leinster and Ireland. He was also a dentist by profession.
Roly Meates was a former Ireland rugby coach and physical education teacher.
Roly Meates coached both the Leinster and Ireland rugby teams during his career.
Roly Meates was a well-respected figure in the rugby community and was credited with developing several young rugby players who went on to have successful careers in the sport.