Joe Schmidt honoured for contribution to Irish rugby

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt was honoured by the Rugby Writers of Ireland at the annual Guinness Rugby Writers Awards, having been awarded the prestigious Tom Rooney award in recognition of his immense contribution to Irish rugby.

Schmidt was unable to attend the gala event at the Guinness Storehouse last night having returned to New Zealand due to a family bereavement but Ireland captain Rory Best collected the award on his behalf while Irish and Leinster lock James Ryan was named the Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Men’s Player of the Year, in recognition of another outstanding season for club and country.