Geoff Postle Memorial Rugby Fund

”Never underestimate the power of a strong female rugby player!” This was the last message Coach Geoff (my husband) shared with his High School Girl’s Rugby Team the day before he passed away of cardiac arrest at the young age of 53.

Those who knew Geoff knew how passionate he was about rugby and in particular coaching young female players like his daughters Sydney and Jessica. After serving as an Elite Air Force Search and Rescue Tech, Geoff took the SAR values of grit, determination and perseverance to his team. Geoff was a tough coach with a soft heart and showed his players what they were capable of. He pushed these girls hard physically and emotionally and changed many lives in the process. He built confidence, belief in self and showed them that getting dirty and “embracing the suck” was how to excel. For many of these female players it was a life changing experience and confidence builder that will last a lifetime. He welcomed and created strong athletes out of some girls who had never played a contact sport or experienced that level of intensity. My girls would often tease him after practice and say “Dad.. can you be a bit nicer..” the answer was always no. He coached with tough love, the players felt it and they grew as athletes and humans.

To honour his passion we have decided to start the Geoff Postle Rugby Fund in his memory and use those funds to remove financial barriers that athletes and their families often face.

Regional, provincial and national rugby programs are all “pay to play” and Geoff would agree that money should never get in the way of an athlete chasing their dreams. Our hope is that this fund will help local female athletes reach their full potential without barriers. This could include anything from helping an underprivileged community player with a pair of cleats to helping with the cost of playing for the Provincial or National team.

If you want to support his dream of empowering female rugby players please share what feels good for you. Donations will be held in a trust to be dispersed in consultation with the Comox Valley Rapids Rugby Club and local High Schools. As donors you will be updated on how your generosity is making a difference.

Sydney, Jessica and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.

Geoff will be so missed as an amazing coach, loving Father and adored Husband. Thank you.

”We will be eternally grateful for the role Geoff played in Emma’s life. She would not be where she is now without his guidance and support. He made her feel strong when she felt weak, he gave her confidence when she doubted herself, he gave her a chance to be the best version of herself. When Geoff spoke about Emma you could see the pride in his eyes. Emma is heartbroken and so are we“ Heidi G.

“Erin..we are so devastated for you, the girls and Geoff. Olivia wouldn’t be where she is if it weren’t for Geoff getting her into rugby, inspiring, training, teasing, believing in her, pushing her. She always wanted Geoff’s approval because he brought that out in her. “ Denise