IRISH RUGBY STAR Donncha O’Callaghan has paid tribute to Paul Darbyshire, after the fitness coach passed away recently following a long battle with motor neurone disease.
O’Callaghan praised Darbyshire in particular for his motivational skills and for promoting “the mindset that your body could do anything and would never fail”.
Despite being diagnosed with the disease last September, he continued to involve himself in the Munster team’s affairs, attending all their home games this season.
The news came in conjunction with the second day of a cycle that aimed to raise funds for Derbyshire’s family and for further research into the disease.
Darbyshire, who played rugby league for Warrington Wolves, also received support from figures outside the rugby community.
O’Callaghan added: “When it comes to sport some things are put into perspective and the whole sporting community comes together, which is only right.
“It’s incredibly sad, especially for such a great fella, a great friend who was great at his job.”
For information on how to donate to the cycle in aid of Darbyshire click here.
