Some coaches come with clipboards and training plans. Others just show up, sleeves rolled up, ready to do whatever the club needs. Oliver Loughlin is firmly in the second camp — and the players love him for it.
Ollie grew up playing rugby in Ireland, where the game is woven into the fabric of everyday life. That love of rugby crossed the world with him, and when his son Fraser started playing at Eltham, Ollie followed him onto the sideline — and has been there ever since. As Fraser has moved up through the age groups, so has Ollie, and this year that means the U12s.
Last season, his younger son Daithí joined the Get Into Rugby program, and — as tends to happen at this club — Ollie got roped in to help there too. The kids took to him immediately. No surprise there.
What can players expect from Ollie this season? He’ll be there. Every week. Ready to help wherever the club needs him. At a volunteer-run club, that commitment means everything.
His favourite rugby memory? Taking Fraser to the Bledisloe Cup and watching him run out with the Wallabies team. Not a bad one.
His coaching style in one word? Chaotic. His words, not ours — but somehow, it works. 😄
We’re lucky to have you, Ollie. 🖤💛
Related Posts
