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Eddie O'Sullivan (born November 21 1958) is the current head coach of the Ireland rugby union team.
O'Sullivan was born in Youghal, County Cork, in the Republic of Ireland. After attending the Christian Brothers school in the town, he graduated from Thomond College, part of the University of Limerick.
Early career
He went on to play for the famous Garryowen Football Club during the 1970s and 1980s, while teaching physical education, maths, and science in Mountbellow, County Galway. He started his coaching career at a minor club in Galway before being appointed as a rugby development officer with the IRFU. He followed this with spells coaching at Blackrock College, (first as assistant, then as head coach) Connacht and the Irish Under-21 side. The Under-21 side won the 1996 "Triple Crown", beating Clive Woodward's England.
After failing to secure a high profile coaching position in Ireland, O'Sullivan moved to America to coach the US Eagles. He was then appointed as the assistant coach of the Irish national side in 1999, and in 2001 as the head coach following the departure of Warren Gatland.
Ireland career
After finishing third in his first Six Nations Championship in 2002, O'Sullivan's Ireland went on to achieve second place in 2003, only losing the Grand Slam in the final match against England. At the 2003 Rugby World Cup his team lost to France in the quarter finals.
Ireland again finished second in the 2004 Six Nations, losing the Grand Slam to France this time. After starting as many people's favourites for the 2005 champinship, O'Sullivan's side slumped to third place with defeats by France and Wales. In the 2006 Championship only a poor first half performance against France cost O'Sullivan his first Championship and Grand Slam.
Known for his relaxed style, O'Sullivan enjoys widespread support after strong Six Nations performances, including two Triple Crowns, and a credible World Cup campaign. However some commentators have criticised Ireland's results during his tenure, citing the fact that he has one of the world's best back lines at his disposal.
External link
| Preceded by: Warren Gatland |
Irish national rugby coach 2001- |
Followed by: ' |
| Ireland squad – 2003 Rugby World Cup | |
|---|---|
| Forwards | |
| Backs | |
| Coach: O'Sullivan | |