New chapter in life of Munster legend ‘Axel’
The book, co-written by Peter O’Reilly of the Sunday Times, details in charming and entertaining style the life and times, and the good and bad days of one of Munster’s most-loved and respected figures.
Childhood friend and fellow international Keith Wood was present at the launch and also wrote the foreword to a book that charts Foley’s life from his childhood in Killaloe, Co Clare, and his love of hurling before rugby became his number one sport at St Munchin’s. From there he went on to establish himself as Munster’s No 8 and won 62 caps for country.
The chapter in which Foley discusses the influence of his father, Brendan, is a moving tribute, while ‘Axel’ also talks in sometimes hilarious detail the last days of amateurism before professionalism swept through the game in the summer of 1995.
“I tried to be truthful and honest in it,” said Foley last night. “They’re my assessments of the situations. Now I hope people read it for what it is.”
The 2006 Heineken Cup winning captain retired from rugby at the end of last season and now works as a coach with the Munster U20s, Munster A while also assuming the role of technical assistant with the senior side.
“You get a good buzz out of playing but there is a time where your memories of playing could be hampered if you continued beyond when you should retire,” he admitted.
“I just felt last year was a good time for me to call it. I’m pretty happy with that decision at the moment.”
As he begins a new chapter in his life Foley admits he is finding the transition challenging.
“It’s tough, but it’s time-consuming as I expect it. It’s enjoyable and there are a lot of challenges.
* Foley will be signing copies of his book in Easons, Patrick Street, Cork tomorrow from 12:30pm.
Axel: A Memoir is published by Hachette Books, Ireland and retails at €23.99.
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