Former USA Men’s Eagles Head Coach, Peter Thorburn, passed away on Monday in North Harbour, New Zealand. He was 81. Thorburn joined USA Rugby in 2006 and led the Men’s Eagles to France for the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Popularly known as a sharp and quick-witted rugby mind, Thorburn’s short time with USA Rugby left a lasting impression.
USA Eagle Alum Dan Payne earned his first cap under Thorburn and noted, “Thorbs was a direct and sincere man who served the union well during his tenure. He was what we would classify as an old school coach and the word 'tough' was constantly rolling off his lips. He was always looking for creative ways to test your mental and physical strength.
Speaking with several teammates since we learned of his passing there have been many laughs and fond memories of the time we shared with Thorbs. Our sincere condolences to his wife Sarnia and family. He was one of a kind and will be missed.”
Thorburn also coached and served as administrator in his native New Zealand with the North Harbour Rugby Union, English club Bristol and the All Blacks Sevens during the early 90’s.
