BoI to continue Connacht sponsorship

Bank of Ireland today announced that it is to continue its sponsorship of the Connacht rugby senior team for another two seasons until 2005/2006.

Having sponsored the increasingly successful province since 1996, the announcement marks a 10-year relationship between Connacht rugby and Bank of Ireland.

Bank of Ireland's western regional manager Donal Flynn said: "We have been long-term and proud supporters of Connacht and are delighted to renew for the next two seasons.

"Connacht enjoyed huge success last season when they reached the semi-finals of both the Parker Pen and the Celtic Cup. These are exciting times for Connacht rugby and we are very much looking forward to being part of their continued success."

Connacht IRFU CEO Gerry Kelly added: "Bank of Ireland make a significant investment to Connacht rugby and we are very pleased to benefit from their input.

"In a rapidly-changing game such as rugby, quality sponsorship is very important and we in Connacht are very fortunate to have Bank of Ireland on our side."

The announcement coincides with the pre-season friendly between Connacht and Newcastle Falcons in Galway, when England captain Jonny Wilkinson makes his return to rugby, having been out of action with a shoulder injury for almost eight weeks.