Sullivan joining in LMU fight song. Michael McCullough photo

Sullivan chatting during a pregame stretch. Michael MucCullough photo

The award Sullivan won as Most Inspirational Player in '84

The Loyola ruggers at Sullivan's service

Loyola Marymount rugby lost its biggest supporter last week, Terry Sullivan, who died Sept. 12 at the age of 50.

Sullivan, who lived with Down sydrome, began his relationship with Loyola rugby in 1970 when his brother, Dan, played for the team. He continued to follow, support and cheer on his Lions long after his brother’s career at Loyola, even earning a varsity letter and serving as honorary assistant coach under head coach Dick Laner in the ‘70s.

“Next to his family,” said John Guerrero, Loyola class of ’95, of Sullivan. “I believe that Loyola Rugby was his greatest love.”

Sullivan's passion for Loyola Marymount extended throughout campus life and included celebrating Sunday mass, cheering as a season ticket holder at various Lion sporting events and competing annually at LMU's Special Games. His 40 years of school spirit are exemplified best by his lifelong friendships with students, faculty and clergy.

“It was always rewarding seeing Terry cheering us on in the stands. He greeted everyone with a smile and an open heart,” said Loyola Marymount All American Zach Fenoglio.

“Terry was always a constant reminder to me of why I play this sport and what it means to be able to put on the Loyola jersey. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit and passion for life and Loyola will live on through our team.”

Upwards 40 current or past Loyola rugby players attended Sullivan’s memorial service Sunday.

“Terry Sullivan was a remarkable man; able to lift our player’s hearts while keeping their feet firmly on the ground,” said Ray Thompson, who spent 30 years as either assistant or head coach at Loyola.

“I fear the greater loss to the Loyola team will not be for those players that knew Terry, and were his teammates, but rather for the future Loyola players who will never have had the privilege of knowing him.”

Also in attendance at Sullivan’s service were several members of the LMU athletic department, including the head men’s soccer coach and numerous soccer and basketball players.

Notable rugby Lions in attendance at Sullivan’s service
Captain Eddie Anton
President Abe Waziri

Notable Alumni
Gabe Mazzone '03 (LA Rugby Club Captain)
Zach Fenoglio '11 (All-American)
John Guerrero '95 (Team member introduced to Terry's niece Lisa Sullivan Guerrero '95 through rugby at LMU and then they married)
Dan Sullivan '71 (Team member and Terry's brother)

Dick Laner '75
Assistant Coach 1975-1980
Head Coach 1980-1988

Ray Thompson, '77
Assistant Coach 1980-1988
Head Coach 1990-2007

Tim Hock '84
Assistant Coach 2002 - Present

Larry Docimo
Assistant Coach 2003 - 2007
Head Coach 2008 - Present