Alastair Munn

Submitted by Stirling County RFC Stirling County is in mourning at the passing of club legend Alastair Munn who died last week aged 63. Al was a former player, club captain and coach.  As a player Al went straight into the 1st XV from the under-18s in season 1972/73. He was a No 8 whose playing career pre-dated the introduction of the leagues.Often surprised to find himself on the wrong side of a ruck, he earned the nickname ‘indestructible Al’. He was a skilful but tough player who never took a step backwards.When the leagues were introduced, he was a huge part of the County team that went on that great adventure climbing up the leagues. County stated in Division 7 and when he stopped playing they had reached Division 2. Al last played for the 1st XV in season 1984/85.He was club captain from 1977/79 and over the years won the ‘club man of the year’ more than anybody else. Although his 1st XV career drew to a close, Al never stopped playing, turning out latterly for the 3rds and the Wolfhounds whenever he could.As a coach, his career was even more remarkable. Al devoted his talent to coaching the age grade sides at Bridgehaugh. Over the years he coached every age grade team several times. He was last seen on the touchline at BT Murrayfield for last season’s under-18 Cup final.Generations of rugby players who came through the County system owe a massive debt to Al for his time, dedication and skill. He was as popular with those he coached as he was with those he played with.As if this was not enough, Al also nurtured the growing women’s section at Stirling. For years he has coached and supported the women’s team. He was particularly pleased to hear of the success of our girls’ section this year in the inaugural Schools & Youth President’s Conference.Of good Fife stock, his mother died when he was young and he grew up in Derbyshire. He came to Stirling aged 17 and worked with his father as a mechanic for years. He drove for TNT and latterly worked at the rugby club.Al was a quiet, undemonstrative man who inspired love and loyalty in those he came into contact. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him. His contribution to Stirling County and to the wider rugby community was immense. We will not see his like again.Al’s funeral will be held on Monday 5 December at 11am in Callander Kirk, followed by Stirling County RFC.