Over this weekend, the rugby world paid it’s last respects to Doddie Weir. The former Scotland and British and Irish Lions’ player succumbed to his debilitating motor neuron disease at the age of 52.
From the personal tributes and obituaries, a sense of the man can be found. One who played with energy and pride, and as his health issues limited his physical ability, the charisma and honesty of the father showed his humanity and resilience.
Scottish Rugby shared the grief of the Weir family and friends and former teammates of Doddie. A video tribute was issued, along with fond memories and stories of the lock forward who represented his family, club, and his country 61 times.
Doddie Weir 1970-2022; powerful story of rugby and resilience
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved husband and father, Doddie,” read a statement from the family via the Scottish Rugby Union. “Doddie was an inspirational force of nature. His unending energy and drive, and his strength of character powered him through his rugby and business careers and, we believe, enabled him to fight the effects of MND for so many years.”
The OBE recipient has inspired many rugby and non-affiliated supporters to never give up. In 2017, Doddie Weir was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, and became one of the most vocal and prominent campaigners in the world – setting up his charity My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which has raised more than £5 million since being launched.
Tributes have poured in to honour a true legend of the game both on the pitch and off it, with fellow British & Irish Lion and legendary commentator Brian Moore calling Weir an “outstanding man”.
Last Word on Rugby Senior Contributor Robert Rees shared the official Scottish Rugby commemorative message on Twitter.
Devastating news tonight as we hear of the passing of Scotland legend Doddie Weir.
A hero for his charity work in the face of his cruel illness and a great ambassador for MND and rugby.
RIP Doddie. pic.twitter.com/Hp7gX6tXo7
— Robert Rees (@Rreesrugby) November 26, 2022
Doddie Weir: Career highlights
A towering lock and lineout specialist, Edinburgh-born Weir scored four tries during his 10-year (1990-2000) Scotland career and helped his country to the 1999 Five Nations Championship – Scotland’s last major tournament success.
He was also part of the British and Irish Lions squad which toured South Africa in 1997, although his trip was cut short due to injury.
Having moved to Newcastle, Weir won the 1997-1998 Premiership title, before ending his playing days with Border Reivers.
“Main photo credit British and Irish Lions twitter”
