This post was originally published on this site.
Tributes have been paid to beloved rugby coach and school teacher Roger Goode following his passing at the age of 83.
Goode dedicated decades to teaching and coaching rugby, leading the Wales Schools side between 1990 and 2000. As a teacher, he worked at Bishop Hannon, Cantonian and St John’s School – working as the head of PE at Cantonian for a number of decades.
During his time at Cantonian, he played a big part in bringing through legendary Wales scrum-half Terry Holmes and Cardiff cult hero Brendan McAloon among others.
As well as serving as chairman, coach and selector for Cardiff Schools Rugby Union, he also coached South Glamorgan to two Welsh Country Championships in the 1990s.
Goode was also involved in the iconic Cardiff Dewar Shield side that went unbeaten – winning 26 matches and drawing one – in 1972.
To his family, he was a beloved father and grandfather, supporting his two sons, James and Mike, as well as grandsons, Fletcher, Sullivan and Joseph.
One of his sons, James, went on to play for Cardiff, Ospreys, Newcastle and Manawatu during his playing career.
JOIN OUR WALES RUGBY FACEBOOK PAGE Latest news, analysis and much more
Paying tribute to a “special man” and “wonderful personal support”, his family noted how, even until recently, Goode was driving to watch his grandsons play football and cricket.
His final match was at St Fagans, watching James, Fletcher and Sullivan play for Cowbridge Cricket Club.
The club will hold a minute’s silence this Saturday ahead of all matches in honour of Goode.
“For more than 35 years, Roger Goode dedicated his life to education, young people and the game of rugby,” read a tribute from Cardiff Schools Rugby Union.
“Through his teaching careers at Bishop Hannon, Cantonian and latterly St John’s School, he inspired generations of pupils both in the classroom and on the sports field.
“A passionate and dedicated PE teacher, Roger gave countless hours of his own time to coaching school teams in rugby, baseball and athletics. His enthusiasm, knowledge and unwavering commitment helped shape the lives of so many young people.
“Roger’s contribution to Cardiff Schools Rugby Union was immense. He served with distinction as Chairman, Coach and Selector, and in recognition of his outstanding service, the Union honoured him by electing him as its Centenary Chairman. He also gave many years of service to Welsh Schools Rugby, believing wholeheartedly that schools rugby was the foundation of the Welsh game.
“As Wales Schools International Coach between 1990 and 2000, Roger enjoyed remarkable success, winning 19 matches, losing only four and drawing one. He also coached South Glamorgan to Welsh County Championships in 1993–94 and 1996–97.
“Yet, while these achievements were impressive, Roger himself would have measured success not in trophies or statistics, but in the development of the young people he coached.
“Roger set the highest standards while remaining encouraging, patient and supportive. He always took the time to explain how players could improve and believed in a style of rugby that involved every member of the team. His ability to inspire confidence, nurture talent and instil a lifelong love of the game was his greatest gift.
“Countless rugby players took their very first steps in the sport under Roger’s guidance, and many went on to represent Cardiff Schools, Welsh Schools and beyond. For them, the lessons he taught both on and off the field will remain with them forever.
“Those who had the privilege of working alongside Roger will remember his integrity, humility, honesty, good humour and unwavering dedication. He encouraged fellow coaches and teachers, supported volunteers and strengthened the values that make schools rugby so special.
“Despite his many achievements, he remained one of rugby’s most unassuming, approachable and respected figures—a true gentleman of the game.
“Roger’s legacy lives on through the thousands of young people he coached, the coaches he mentored and the countless lives he touched throughout Welsh schools rugby.
“Cardiff Schools Rugby Union extends its heartfelt and sincere condolences to Mike, James and their families at this sad time.
“Roger Goode was a lifelong servant of the game, an exceptional teacher, an outstanding coach and, above all, one of rugby’s truly good men.
“He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.”
Paying tribute, Cardiff Rugby’s age-grade account posted: “Thoughts with all the family. A truly great man and such a huge influence for so many.”
Follow all of our channels to ensure you stay up to date with the latest Welsh rugby news. Sign up to our free daily newsletter here and our WhatsApp channel here for all the breaking news.
