O’Kelly’s peers vote him top player of the year

MALCOLM O’KELLY last night scooped the inaugural IRUPA Mira Players’ Player of the Year award.

O’Kelly was voted the country’s top professional by his rugby peers, ahead of other top nominees Geordan Murphy and John Hayes.

The Irish Rugby Union Players Association and Mira also honoured Munster veterans Mick Galwey and Peter Clohessy by inducting them into the Hall of Fame.

O’Kelly said: “To be voted the best player for 2003 by my peers when there are so many talented players is a tremendous honour. This is the ultimate rugby accolade and something I will treasure for the rest of my career.”

The awards were held to celebrated a year of individual achievements in what was a great year for Irish rugby. The 2002/2003 season have seen Ireland win 10 out of their 11 tests, losing only once to the all-conquering and current world ranked number one team England.

“What makes these awards so special is that they are voted for by the players from the four provinces.

“Congratulations to Malcolm O’Kelly, Jason Holland, Peter Clohessy, Michael Galwey, Gordan D’Arcy and Neil McMillan in winning what will become the most coveted and prestigious awards in Irish rugby,” commented Niall Woods, chief executive of IRUPA.

Award Winners: The Players Player of the Year: Malcolm O’Kelly (Leinster).

Unsung Hero 2003: Jason Holland (Munster).

Barker Insurance Hall of Fame: Peter Clohessy, Michael Galwey.

Try of the Year: Gordon D’Arcy (Leinster).

O2 Young Player of the Year: Neil McMillan (Ulster).