Munster awards to celebrate club stars

The sixth annual Munster Rugby Awards, in association with the Irish Examiner, will take place on Saturday, May 5 at Thomond Park.

Uniting the domestic and professional elements of the game, this evening is a celebration of rugby in the province at all levels.

Guests will also be able to support the Munster team on the night when they take on Ulster in the final round game of the RaboDirect Pro12.

All funds raised will go towards the running of and development of the Munster Rugby academy. The reigning senior player of the year is James Coughlan, while Ian Nagle and Conor Murray picked up the academy and young player of the year gongs.

Speaking at the launch Garrett Fitzgerald, Munster Rugby chief executive said he was pleased the Irish Examiner is extending its sponsorship of the awards and expressed gratitude to sports editor Tony Leen and his team’s ongoing support.

“The purpose of the awards is to recognise individual performance in rugby in Munster, as well as the achievements of clubs and schools both on and off the pitch. With 11 diverse categories being honoured, ranging from Munster Player, Young Player and Academy Player of the Year including women’s rugby, referees, schools and clubs,” he said.

Tony Leen added: “The Irish Examiner is proud to be involved in these prestigious awards. Our continued support for the awards is an extension of our own commitment and belief in giving prominence to rugby at all levels, from international to underage and to the all-important junior ranks.”

The Irish Examiner will run a competition in the build-up to the awards, asking readers to vote for Munster’s Player of the Year. Prizes include tickets to attend the gala awards evening, as well as the chance for a class to tour Thomond Park. Supporters and businesses can purchase a table or individual places for the awards dinner, which include match tickets. A table of 10 costs €1,950 and can be purchased via Andrew Neenan at Munster Rugby. Phone: [phone] or email: [e-mail]