'Key leader' Dave Heffernan pens new two-year Connacht deal

Heffernan's latest contract extension keeps him at Connacht until 2017, which will mark 15 years since his senior debut.

Wed, 05 Mar, 2025 - 15:01

Shane Donovan

Connacht veteran Dave Heffernan has put pen-to-paper on a new two-year deal with the province.

34-year-old Ballina native Heffernan came through the Connacht academy and made his professional debut in March 2012 and has gone on to make 212 appearances in the following 13 years, putting him 8th in the all-time record appearances list.

The Connacht vice-captain has also made international appearances at numerous levels, including the Ireland U20s, Wolfhounds, Emerging Ireland and Barbarians, and has earned seven caps for the senior Ireland team.

His latest contract extension keeps him at Connacht until 2017, which will mark 15 years since his senior debut.

“Dave continues to prove himself as one of the key leaders in the playing group," Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins said. "He’s an ultimate professional who still has the same passion and drive to succeed, even with all he has achieved in his career.

"He’s proven that again this season with some of the best rugby of his career. His commitment to a further two years here is a great boost for the club.”