Munster rugby have led the tributes after their coach Greig Oliver tragically died in a horror paragliding accident in South Africa.
The 58-year-old father of two played three times for Scotland and featured in two World Cups as a scrum-half.
He moved to Ireland in 2007 and went on to become a key figure at Munster rugby, holding the role of Elite Performance Development Officer for the province.
READ MORE: Munster rugby coach Greig Oliver dies in horror paragliding accident in Cape Town
Prior to taking on the role of Munster EPDO, he acted as director of rugby for famous Limerick club Garryowen.
The devoted family man was hugely proud of his children’s sporting achievements as Jack followed in his footsteps by pursuing a career in rugby while daughter Ciara excelled at Gaelic football.
He was in South Africa with his wife Fiona in support of their son Jack and the Ireland U20s squad playing in the World Rugby U20 Championship when tragedy struck and he passed away on Monday afternoon.
Munster Rugby CEO, Ian Flanagan, said: “On behalf of Munster Rugby, I would like to express our deepest sympathies to Greig’s wife Fiona, son Jack, daughter Ciara, and the wider Oliver family.
“We are all in a state of shock following Greig’s tragic passing. He was a great colleague and friend to so many and will be dearly missed across the Munster and Irish Rugby community.
“Greig made his presence felt each day, he was always there to provide a helping hand and was a hugely popular character with his light-hearted nature and sense of humour.
“He had an infectious enthusiasm for the game and was incredibly passionate about helping young players be the best they can be on and off the field.
“May he rest in peace.”
A separate tweet on the official Munster account read: "Shocked & deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our close friend & colleague Greig Oliver. Our immediate thoughts are with Greig's wife Fiona, children Jack & Ciara, & the wider Oliver family. May he rest in peace."
Commenting on the news, IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts said; “On behalf of the Irish rugby community, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Oliver family at this extremely sad time.
“Greig was a hugely popular member of staff and played a key role in the development of many young players during his time at Munster Rugby.
“Today’s news is an unspeakable tragedy and our thoughts are with Greig’s wife Fiona, children Jack and Ciara, and his many friends, family and colleagues. May he rest in peace.”
Garryowen rugby also paid tribute to their former Director of Rugby: "All at Garryowen F.C. are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend and club mate Greig Oliver who was involved in a tragic paragliding accident in Cape Town today.
"He will be greatly missed by all of us lucky enough to have known him RIP Greig."
