Syd Millar: Tributes paid to former Ireland and Lions rugby legend

Tributes have been paid to former Ireland and Lions legend Syd Millar after he passed away yesterday (Sunday) at the age of 89.
By Helena McManus
Published 11th Dec 2023, 17:35 BST
Updated 12th Dec 2023, 14:46 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

A stalwart of Ballymena Rugby Club and Ulster Rugby, he made his Ireland debut in 1958 and won a total of 37 caps as well as playing on three British and Irish Lions tours in 1959, 1962 and 1966.

He went on to coach Ireland between 1973 and 1975 and was the mastermind behind the Lions’ undefeated tour to South Africa in 1974.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Syd also served as Lions manager on the 1980 tour, as well as Ireland manager at the inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup.

Tributes have been paid to former Ireland and Lions legend Syd Millar after he passed away at age of 89. Photo: National WorldTributes have been paid to former Ireland and Lions legend Syd Millar after he passed away at age of 89. Photo: National World
Tributes have been paid to former Ireland and Lions legend Syd Millar after he passed away at age of 89. Photo: National World

IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts said: “Syd was a visionary who helped navigate the testing waters as the game moved from amateurism to professionalism.

“A past President of Ballymena Rugby Club, Ulster Rugby and the IRFU, his influence helped drive the global expansion of the sport.

“His is a legacy which will endure. On behalf of the Irish Rugby community, I would like to express my sincere condolences to his daughter Lesley, and sons Peter and Johnny at this sad time.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ulster Rugby added that Syd’s contributions and legacy “will forever be etched in rugby history”, while Ballymena Rugby Club expressed its condolences to the family of their “highly esteemed member”.

Highlighting his incredible sporting legacy, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna said: “I am saddened to hear of the passing of Syd and my thoughts are first and foremost with his family and friends. Hailing from Ballymena, he was an exceptional rugby player, coach and indeed manager. His talent knew no bounds and he gave so much to the world of rugby – he truly was a sporting hero.

“Awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Ballymena on 20 May 2004, he was an ambassador for Mid and East Antrim and was dedicated to Ballymena Rugby Club where he kickstarted his career. He will be greatly missed and I know his knowledge, dedication and legacy will live on.”

Passing on a tribute to the fellow Ballymena man was actor Liam Neeson, who said Syd was “not only a legend, but a true gentleman.”

A Service of Thanksgiving for Syd’s life will be held in West Presbyterian Church on Thursday, December 14 at 12pm.

Related topics:British and Irish LionsIreland