Zebo's season marked with award nominations

An impressive season for province and country has earned Munster winger Simon Zebo nominations for both Player of the Year and try of the year, from the Irish Rugby Union Players’ Association, (IRUPA.)

The Professional Players’ awards, which will take place on May 8th at Dublin’s Burlington Hotel, hold a special significance for players as they are voted for by their fellow professionals.

Player of the Year is the most coveted prize on offer on the night, and Zebo faces competition from fellow nominees Cian Healy and Ulster back rower Mick Williams, for the accolade.

23-year-old Zebo is also in running for try of the year for his touchdown in Ireland’s opening Six Nations game against Wales .

The other tries in contention are Craig Gilroy's five-pointer against Argentina in the November internationals and Iain Henderson's effort against Saracens in Ulster's Heineken Cup quarter-final.

Connacht fullback Rob Henshaw, Leinster’s outhalf Ian Madigan and Ulster inside centre Luke Marshall have all been shortlisted for the Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year Award.

2013 is the second year of the Medal for Excellence which will be awarded to the individual who demonstrates exceptional commitment to the game both on and off field.

Players across the provinces voted for Leinster's Isaac Boss, Ulster's Chris Henry and retiring Munster prop Marcus Horan.

Player Player of the Year: Cian Healy (Leinster) N Williams (Ulster) S Zebo (Munster).

Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year: R Henshaw (Connacht), I Madigan (Leinster) L Marshall (Ulster).

Try of the Year: C Gilroy (Ireland v Argentina); I Henderson (Saracens v Ulster); S Zebo (Ireland v Wales).

Medal for Excellence : I Boss (Leinster), C Henry (Ulster), M Horan (Munster). Hall of Fame, Unsung Hero ,

Supporters Players of the Year – all to be announced on Wednesday, May 8th.