Remembering Garrett Fitzgerald

It is somewhat fitting that within a short distance from Tramore Road Garrett slipped away Friday night surrounded by his loving family, while his Munster family all gathered for their return to action in Irish Independent Park.

It is also fitting that Munster produced their biggest ever win margin in all competitions in the game against the Kings.

This all taking place at the venue where in 1992 Garrett coached Munster to victory against the then World Champions Australia.

The same venue that Garrett turned into a fantastic community facility, open to all, with a new surface that ensures rugby can be played no matter the conditions.

Travel the N20 and you again see the tangible results of Garrett’s hard-work and perseverance. Thomond Park is one of the most iconic rugby grounds in the world. The venue has hosted memorable occasions, and the redevelopment in 2008 brought it to box-office heights.

Over the road is the High Performance Centre in UL. A world-class training base that opened its doors in 2016 bringing the squad together in one location for the first time.

These are the bricks and mortar from Garrett’s tenure.

There was silverware also.

Two European Champions Cups in 2006 and 2008, three Celtic Leagues titles, in 2003, 2009 and 2011, and a Celtic Cup in 2005.

Garrett oversaw the province’s most successful period.

And for a man who was across every aspect of rugby in the province it is impossible to cover everything he touched for the better of Munster Rugby.

Keen to know the numbers at a minis rugby blitz in Kerry or how a coaching course went in Waterford, to signing world-class players and commercial partners, Garrett’s duties were endless and he worked tirelessly for the sport and club he loved.

Working closely with volunteers, developing the game and getting the best out of people in order to achieve a common goal were the daily tasks that he excelled at.

With a personable manner he showed great humility, integrity and a unique sense of humour while leading the organisation for twenty years.

Garrett has overseen his final match now and can rest easy knowing that Munster Rugby is in a better place for everything he achieved.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.