Ray McLoughlin RIP

22 November 2021

Ray McLoughlin RIP
Connacht Rugby are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Ray McLoughlin, one of the greatest players to represent the province and our first British & Irish Lion.
 
McLoughlin was born in Ballinasloe Co. Galway in 1939 and attended Garbally College. Over 16 years he represented Connacht 34 times, making him one of our most capped players of the amateur era. He also earned 40 caps for Ireland and captained the national side on seven occasions.
 
In 1966 McLoughlin became the first Connacht player ever to represent the British & Irish Lions, touring Australia & New Zealand and featuring in three Test matches as well as 14 provincial fixtures.
 
He was called up the Lions again in 1971 for the tour of New Zealand, which was unfortunately cut short due to injury.
 
McLoughlin is regularly mentioned as one of Ireland’s greatest ever props and he leaves an immeasurable impact on rugby in the West of Ireland.
 
Everyone at Connacht Rugby sends on our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and everyone in the wider rugby community who had the pleasure of working with him.