Former Irish rugby international Gary Halpin dies suddenly

Former Leinster and Ireland rugby player Gary Halpin has died suddenly at the age of 55.

Halpin made 11 appearances for Ireland as a prop forward and played in the 1991 and 1995 World Cups.

He is remembered by many sports fans for his infamous celebration after scoring a try against New Zealand in the 1995 World Cup in South Africa.

Since 2017, Halpin was Head of Boarding at Cisterican College, Roscrea, located in the grounds of Mount St Joseph Abbey in Co. Offaly, close to the Tipperary border.

Mount St Joseph Abbey has paid a warm tribute to Gary and extended sympathy to his family.

"The Monastic community and the College community of staff, students, parents were devastated this morning on hearing of the sudden death of our much loved colleague and friend Gary Halpin, RIP.

"Since Gary joined our college as Head of Boarding he brought tremendous energy to his work. He loved the college. He had a formidable presence, a great sense of humour and above all he was an extremely humble man, " said a statement from Mount St Joseph Abbey.

"Although Gary had a prestigious rugby career he never boasted about it. We all knew Gary as a colleague who worked so well with every staff member and student.

"Gary’s most important role in life was that of a husband, father and brother. This morning we will all keep in our thoughts and prayers Gary’s wife Carol, his children and his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen, who played alongside Gary for Blackrock College, also paid tribute to his former colleague.

Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie, Cullen said: "He was without doubt one of the most hilarious characters to ever have stepped foot in a rugby dressing room. Our thoughts and condolences go out to all Gary’s family and friends at this challenging time.”

In its tribute to Halpin, the IRFU described Halpin as "a unique and much-loved figure in the game", adding that "his sporting prowess saw him shine in two different fields".

"He represented Ireland in hammer throwing at the 1987 World Athletics Championships and played in the 1991 and 1995 Rugby World Cups. A native of Kilkenny, the most iconic moment of his rugby career came during the 1995 World Cup in South Africa when he scored a try against New Zealand, leading to that infamous celebration that he later regretted but admittedly ‘dined out on it like a lord’ many times!"

Halpin, who made his Ireland debut against England in 1990, played for London Irish and Harlequins during his time in England.