Sponsorship

IRUPA Rugby Players Awards

Bord Gáis Energy formed a relationship with IRUPA in early 2009, by committing to be the Title Sponsor of IRUPA’s Rugby Players Awards for 2009 and 2010.

Establishing the IRUPA Injured Players Fund was a central objective of IRUPA and reflects its commitment towards supporting those players who have had to depart from rugby or may have to in the near future due to injury or illness. The fund will provide support to players who have suffered serious career ending injuries or illnesses to readjust to a world beyond the playing of the game.

The awards were attended by some of the game’s most well-known names including former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio, Rocky Elsom, Lions captain Paul O’Connell, and former Ireland legends Keith Wood and David Humphreys.

Leinster and Ireland centre Brian O’Driscoll, was voted the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Players' Player of the Year by his fellow players. Brian was delighted with the award commenting: "This award has capped a fantastic season for me so far and also for Irish rugby. This trophy has escaped me for seven years so it's great to finally get up on stage to collect it as it is the ultimate award in Irish rugby. I take great pleasure in winning it as it comes from the people who I respect most, my fellow players."

Joining Ireland's heroes in the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Hall of Fame was Munster legend, Anthony Foley.

Commenting on tonight's awards David Bunworth, MD of Bord Gáis Energy said: "Firstly, I would like to congratulate Brian and all the players who have been honoured here tonight. Bord Gáis Energy is very proud to be supporting IRUPA and the players who have brought us so many fantastic memories, this year in particular. These players are great ambassadors for their sport and their country and it's appropriate that they are recognised in such a fitting manner by their peers. "IRUPA does a worthy job in promoting and protecting the welfare of players all over Ireland. The not for profit work IRUPA carries out endeavours to safeguard the future of professional players on and off the pitch in what is a precarious career and this should be applauded."

About IRUPA

IRUPA was founded in October 2001 by players from around the country and received the support of over 95% of the players. IRUPA is the official Players' Union for professional rugby players irrespective of nationality in Ireland.

IRUPA is a self funding non profit making organisation and it is owned by the players for the players. IRUPA aims to promote and protect the welfare of our members by endeavouring to safeguard their futures both on and off the pitch.