Jonathan Sexton was named Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Player of the Year last night. Sexton was part of the Leinster team to win the RaboDirect PRO12 and Amlin Challenge Cup before a successful Lions tour in which he played a starring role.
Sexton’s former team, Leinster, were awarded the Dave Guiney Team of the Year for the third year running after claiming three trophies last season - they also won the British & Irish Cup.
Niamh Briggs picked up the Women’s Player of the Year after a fantastic season where she played an instrumental role in the Irish Women’s team historic Grand Slam win. The Women’s side were also honoured for their heroics with a Special Recognition Award.
Lansdowne FC were voted Club of the Year due to their success in the All-Ireland League this past season. Meanwhile the Tom Rooney Award went to Alain Rolland for his exceptional contribution to refereeing, which saw him represent Ireland at the highest level on the world stage. And Former Ireland and Lions player and manager Donal Lenihan was inducted into the Guinness Hall of Fame.
