O’Driscoll honoured by rugby writers

ANOTHER rugby awards ceremony, another addition to Brian O’Driscoll’s trophy cabinet.

Last night the Grand Slam-winning skipper collected the Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Player of the Year award following a remarkable season in service of his province, country and the Lions.

O’Driscoll had more to celebrate on the night as Heineken Cup champions Leinster were voted club of the year while Ireland picked up the Dave Guiney perpetual award as team of the year in recognition of their historic Grand Slam triumph. The Tom Rooney award, for exceptional contribution to the game, went to Paddy ‘Rala’ O’Reilly, the popular national team kit master.

The two new members inducted to the Guinness Hall of Fame were back row forwards, Ronnie Kavanagh and Fergus Slattery.

Michael Whelan of Guinness and Peter O’Reilly, chairman of the Rugby Writers, presented the awards.

Player of the Year: Brian O’Driscoll

Club of the Year: Leinster

Dave Guiney Award (Team of the Year): Ireland

Tom Rooney Award (for services to rugby): Paddy ‘Rala’ O’Reilly

Guinness Hall of Fame: Ronnie Kavanagh, Fergus Slattery.