Wayne Daniel (1974-2015)
Everyone at Tallaght Rugby Club was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Wayne Daniel on the 27th January in West Auckland Hospice. In his time living in Ireland, Wayne was a founding member of Tallaght Rugby Club’s first senior men’s team back in 2006. As one of the most experienced players, the big second-row was invaluable for both his own play and his ability to teach newer players about the game.
Former Tallaght RFC President Gregg Behan paid tribute to Wayne. “Wayne was head and shoulders (literally) above most of the team at the time. He always took time to explain a move and had that rare talent most forwards don’t have, he could pass a ball. We will always remember the crucial help he gave the club in its early days.”
Current women’s team coach Bryan Tyrrell was a team-mate of Wayne in that first season. “Wayne was a true gent. I was both honoured and blessed to play alongside him in a Tallaght Jersey.”
Tallaght RFC President Ken Kinsella paid tribute to his former team-mate. “I partnered Wayne in the second row in Tallaght Rugby Club’s first ever match and for many more after that. He was a Goliath of a man both on and off the pitch the true embodiment of the spirit of Tallaght rugby club. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to know Wayne and on behalf of the entire club I want to extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies to all of his family and friends.”
Tallaght Rugby Club sends our condolences to Wayne’s wife Kate, his children Keara and Matty, his mother Mary and the rest of his family and his friends in New Zealand.
R.I.P.