10 May 2016
The Wider Tullamore community at large are mourning the recent sad passing of Steve McNeill. A man of many accomplishments, Steve will be particularly remembered with fondness by all at Tullamore Rugby Club. Arriving in the club in 1982 Steve immediately established himself in the backrow for Tullamore First Team. Having played previously for Wanderers and Navan Steve brought a wealth of experience to Tullamore. He was legendary for his amazing physical fitness and his endurance over many a tough 80 minutes. For a quiet unassuming man off the field Steve was as hard as nails when the action began. He was very fair but was well able to look after himself. Steve was also legendary for his stops on the way to matches to visit a church in some quiet region and many players of different religious persuasions joined him for a pre game prayer. As the years passed Steve moved down through the grades still giving his all for his club. He was very proud to play on the same team as his sons and indeed he won a Coonan cup medal with Tullamore 5th team alongside his son Stiofan. Another son Ciaran captained Tullamore Seconds to Cup glory. Steve was a founder member of the bank of Ireland Rugby team And he played a match for the Bank team on the occasion of his retirement. Steve continued to represent Tullamore well into his fifties and he also continued his other passion of running marathons. In recent years using his banking expertise he gave excellent assistance to the Club officers in financial matters. Tullamore Rugby Club offer sincere condolence and appreciation to his wife and family on their sad loss.
