Connacht Rugby is today in mourning following the news that our friend and colleague, Seán Coppinger, has passed away following a short illness.
A native of Mervue in Galway City, Seán joined Connacht Rugby in 2015 and over the subsequent 11 years played an integral part in the day-to-day running of the organisation. As a key member of the Operations team, Seán carried out his duties with tireless dedication, passion, and pride in his work.
Above all else, his warmth and kindness made him a cherished member of the Connacht Rugby family and he will be missed by everyone who worked with him over the years.
A life-long Connacht supporter, Seán was also an active member of the Connacht Clan supporters group, who share in our mourning today.
Earlier this month Seán presented the players with their matchday jerseys before the Saracens Champions Cup game, such was his standing with the wider squad.
Willie Ruane, CEO of Connacht Rugby, has led the tributes to Seán:
“Today is a terribly sad day for Connacht Rugby and we are all heartbroken by Seán’s passing. Seán took enormous pride in his work, but it was his character, his humour, his kindness and his love for Connacht that really made him special.
For 11 years, Seán made a positive impression on every player and staff member fortunate enough to have known him. While we grieve the loss of a valued colleague and treasured friend, we remember with fondness the memories he gave us.
Our heartfelt thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends, at this difficult time.”
Club captain Cian Prendergast has shared this tribute:
“On behalf of the players I want to express my condolences to Seán’s family and friends at this very sad news.
We all knew Seán well and he was one of the first faces we’d see coming in the gates every morning. You could tell he loved his job and was always there for anything we ever needed.
For Seán to make the effort to attend our Saracens game and present us with our jerseys, despite his health challenges, says everything about him and the passion he had for this club. It was an honour for the players and something we will cherish for the rest of our careers.”
Connacht Rugby will honour Sean’s legacy at Friday’s URC interpro with Leinster at Dexcom Stadium.
