The Final Whistle: Malta Rugby Coach Damian Neill Bids Farewell After 18 Years Ahead Of Cyprus Match
Malta’s International Rugby season 2023 is set to kick off on 25th March, with Malta playing Cyprus in a Conference 1 South Fixture at the Tony Bezzina stadium in Paola.
The Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) anticipates a large crowd – not just for the match, but also as a farewell game for Coach Damian Neill, turning it into a “Festival of Rugby”.
Coach Neill has been a significant figure in Malta Rugby, dedicating eighteen years of service to the sport.
In his heartfelt statement, he expressed gratitude for the incredible journey and the many friendships, marriages, and future generations that have come together through rugby.
He thanked the players, coaches, and supporters for their unwavering commitment and acknowledged his family’s support throughout his career.
“Rugby has been part of my DNA since my dad bought me my first leather rugby ball (yes, leather). I remember the many tellings-off for leaving the ball out in the rain after playing for Wales in that back garden,” Neill recounted in a heartwarming post.
“It’s been an incredible journey leading to eighteen years of service with Malta Rugby; blessed to have met and made so many friends and experienced unforgettable memories.”
“I never even thought of it as a job. It’s always been way more than that, it’s difficult to explain, but it has meant the world to me and will always have a place in my heart.”
Under Coach Neill’s guidance, Malta Rugby has achieved notable accomplishments, including winning Rugby Europe Conferences at 15s, placing within the Top 19 Rugby Europe rankings, and winning Rugby Europe conferences in 7s for both male and female teams.
He also contributed to the growth and development of the sport in Malta, certifying over 700 students, teachers, coaches, conditioners, and officials, and creating a rugby school and an academy that has reached over 100,000 children.
Malta currently sits in third place out of the five teams in the conference competition, and with these two games, they have the opportunity to leapfrog into second place just behind Bulgaria.
Will you be watching the Malta vs Cyprus match? Share this story to show your respect to Coach Neill and his important tenure