The Irish Rugby Union Players’ Association has today unveiled the nominations for the Irish Rugby Players’ Awards, with Leinster’s own Jack McGrath one of the nominees for the Player’s Player of the Year Award.
For the first time ever the four shortlisted nominees of the main award consist of one from each Irish province, with McGrath nominated alongside Rory Best (Ulster), Robbie Henshaw (Connacht) and CJ Stander (Munster).
Voted on by their fellow professional teammates, the four finalists have been selected based on consistent form across the Guinness PRO12, Champions Cup, Challenge Cup, World Cup and 6 Nations.
The Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year – an award which Henshaw has won for the last three years – will also be announced. This year it is contested by a host of talented young players who have stormed onto the scene. Leinster have two representatives in Garry Ringrose and Josh Van Der Flier, whilst Ulster midfielder Stuart McCloskey rounds out the trio. The three players have had breakthrough seasons for their provinces with the latter two making their debuts for Ireland in the 6 Nations.
Amongst the other prestigious awards, the BNY Mellon Hall of Fame will take place on the night, with the recipient to be announced in due course.
Other awards presented on the evening include: The Volkswagen Try of the Year, The Irish Times Supporters’ Player of the Year, the Zurich Contribution to Irish Society Award, the BNY Mellon Women’s XVs Player of the Year, the IRUPA Women’s 7’s Player of the Year, the Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa Moment of the Year and The Vodafone Medal for Excellence.
Commenting on the Awards night was former IRUPA Board Member and Player of the Year 2015, Paul O’Connell: “To be nominated for an IRUPA Award is such a fantastic achievement, it really is a great honour to be recognised by your fellow players. I would like to congratulate all the nominees, wish them the best and hope they enjoy the night”.
For awards updates, follow @IRUPA on Twitter or use the hashtag #RugbyAwards16. For more information on IRUPA, please visit www.irupa.ie.
