Share

Former All Blacks coach passes away

Wellington - New Zealand’s rugby community is mourning the loss of former All Blacks head coach Eric Watson, who passed away on Saturday 25 March, aged 91.

Eric Alexander Watson, who was known to many in rugby circles as Bugle, was born on 20 July 1925 in Dunedin and became head coach of the All Blacks in 1979 after long stints with Otago and the Junior All Blacks.

"It is with real sadness that we mark the passing of Eric Watson," New Zealand Rugby chairman Brent Impey told the All Blacks' official website.

"Eric made a huge contribution as head coach of the All Blacks, Junior All Blacks and Otago and was a big part of rugby for a long time. He remained a stalwart supporter of rugby after retiring, continuing to turn out on the sidelines for many years.

"We know that he will be fondly remembered around New Zealand this week and in particular by the Otago community and the players he coached. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”

An enthusiastic and skilful sportsman, Watson represented Otago in both cricket (1949-1960) and as a flyhalf in rugby (1945-1946). He became an Otago selector/coach in 1962 and remained in that role until 1971.

In 1972, he began his seven seasons with the Junior All Blacks, which included the team’s historic 14-10 win over the All Blacks in Dunedin, as well as taking on a role as South Island selector from 1973 to 1979 and serving on the Otago RFU management committee from 1973-1980.

Watson, who was a self-employed sign writer away from rugby, was appointed to the All Blacks head coach role in 1979 and started his tenure with a win over France. He coached the team for two seasons, stepping down at the end of 1980 after leading the All Blacks to a 23-3 victory over Wales, in what was that Union’s Centenary Test.

Through his involvement with the Junior All Blacks and the All Blacks, Watson had a tremendous influence on New Zealand players in the 1970s and early 1980s.

He remained passionately committed to his Zingari-Richmond club and was made a Life Member of the club in recognition of his service as a player, coach and administrator.

He continued to follow Otago and Highlanders rugby enthusiastically and was inducted to the Otago Rugby Hall of Fame in 2013.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE