Shannon skipper to depart

SHANNON have lost inspirational captain Tom Hayes to English club Plymouth Albion next season.

The 24-year-old, who helped Shannon to the All-Ireland League title a few months ago, has opted for a career with the English first division outfit.

“I didn’t have a contract with Munster. To leave Shannon is tough but I felt the time was right. I travelled to Plymouth last week and was impressed with their set-up.”

After captaining Shannon to consecutive titles, Hayes is full of admiration for the seven-time AIL-winning club.

“There are few clubs that can match Shannon’s success over the years and there is such a professional attitude throughout the club that it’s difficult to leave. The players and management have been a big influence.”

The loss of Hayes has been offset somewhat by Shannon’s signing of two of Munster’s brightest second row prospects , Fergus Walsh and Donnacha Ryan from UCC.