AIL’s survival critical to the future of Irish rugby, insists Galwey

On the opening day of the new All-Ireland League season, Charlie Mulqueen talks to Shannon legend Mick Galwey about his hopes and fears for club rugby.

IT was a sharp autumnal afternoon in 1990 when Thomond Park opened its doors to the All-Ireland League for the first time.

Local favourites Shannon and their Belfast visitors Malone were entering the unknown with little idea of what this brand new, controversially launched competition might mean to the future of Irish rugby. Proudly wearing the Shannon shirt that day was Mick Galwey and incredibly, 17 years later he faces into another AIL season — this time as coach of the famed side.