Rugby

SGS mourns Deans winning coach Osborne

October 18, 2026 9:54 am

Suva Grammar School’s rugby community is mourning the loss of coach Epeli Osbourne, who passed away peacefully at his home in Suva in the early hours of this morning.

Family members and old scholars have confirmed his passing, which has left players, friends and members of the school community grieving.

Osbourne was one of the coaches who guided the Suva Grammar School Under-18 team to a historic Vodafone Super Deans Championship victory this year, ending the school’s 21-year wait for the prestigious title.

Grammar defeated Lelean Memorial School 36-21 in the final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva in August to reclaim the Under-18 crown.

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For Osbourne, the triumph was particularly special, having previously been part of the Grammar team that won the title as a player 21 years ago.

HHis contribution to the team’s success and his commitment to developing young rugby players will remain part of his legacy at the school.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised and will be announced by the family once confirmed.