Steve Black: Rugby mourns death of former Lions, Wales and Newcastle Falcons coach

Adam Kyriacou

20 Feb 2022 11:03 AM

Rugby union has been rocked by the tragic news that former Newcastle Falcons and British & Irish Lions fitness coach, Steve Black, has passed away.

The Premiership side released a statement on Sunday saying that Black, who was a hugely likeable character in every position he took on, had died.

His personality on the 2001 British & Irish Lions tour thrust him into the public limelight and earned him praise from both in and outside the team.

“All at Newcastle Falcons are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our friend and former colleague, Steve Black,” Newcastle revealed on Sunday.

“‘Blackie’, as he was universally known, spent two spells on the club’s coaching staff – but he was so much more than that.

Jovial Geordie

“The jovial Geordie was the spiritual heartbeat of the Falcons from the very early days of professionalism, helping steer Newcastle to promotion and then the Premiership title at the first attempt.”

The club added: “Winning multiple domestic cups under his watch, Blackie’s unique motivational talents saw him succeeding with the Welsh national team and the British & Irish Lions, as well as with Newcastle United and Sunderland football clubs, and numerous other elite sportspeople.

“Much more than his sporting achievements, Blackie was a friend to all of us – a proud Geordie who understood the value of people, and how to inspire them.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Blackie’s family, and his many, many friends. You will never be forgotten.

“RIP, Blackie!”