Overview
- Blackrock College RFC confirmed late Friday that Philip Doyle, nicknamed 'Goose', has died at the age of 61.
- Doyle coached Ireland to their first Women's Six Nations Grand Slam in 2013 and led the team to the 2014 World Cup semi-finals where they recorded the first-ever Irish win over New Zealand.
- He served two spells as Ireland head coach, first from 2003 to 2006 and again from 2010 to 2014, then took the Scotland women’s job in 2019 before stepping down in 2020 to shield during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Doyle’s playing and coaching life was closely tied to Blackrock College RFC where he helped establish the club’s women’s programme and won All-Ireland League titles while mentoring generations of players.
- Clubs and national figures have paid tribute to his influence on women’s rugby, a legacy that may intensify focus on coaching pathways and grassroots investment in the game.