[citation needed] His contribution to rugby has been significant, not only as a player and coach, but as an inspirational personality that attracts many youngsters to the sport.
Ormaechea, aged 40 years old, was also the oldest player ever at the Rugby World Cup finals, in 1999, being the captain in his country first ever presence at the event.
He left rugby for a year, but later returned for a final season at Carrasco Polo Club, before putting an end to his long career, in 2001, aged 41.
Ormaechea was the coach of the Uruguay national team that qualified and played at the 2003 Rugby World Cup finals.
Together with his friends Washington Amarillo and Eduardo Loedel Soca, he promoted and implemented the changes that allowed Uruguay to participate in all Under 17, 18, 19 and 20, as well as Sevens, international competitions.