May 6, 2008

RUGBY with MICHAEL SILKE

ALEX HAYMAN was named ‘OYSTER HOMES Buccaneers Senior player of the year’ at the club’s end of season function in the Athlone Springs Hotel last weekend. Switching from 13 to 12 in the centre, Hayman had a wonderful campaign for Buccs as they came with a late, sustained spurt to capture AIB League Division 2 honours and with it the ultimate goal of promotion.

The popular “Haggy”, who previously played with Ellon, Loughborough University and Nottingham, has represented England at Students and Universities levels, even though he is a Scot! The 25 year old has won two Connacht Senior Cups and a Connacht Senior League title since joining the midlands club. The durable centre is a pharmaceutical analyst with Elan.

He was presented with the coveted award by David Daffy, Financial Director of Oyster Homes, Buccaneers title sponsors. In accepting the specially-commissioned Athlone Glass trophy, Hayman acknowleged the role played in his success by his teammates and coaches, noting the wonderful team spirit displayed this season which was such a positive contrast to the previous year. Collectively they were all looking forward eagerly to the challenges of life in Division One next season.

Backs took three of the four ‘Player of the year’ awards on offer. In addition to Hayman, Simon Moorehead from Mullingar was named “OYSTER HOMES Buccaneers U-20 Player of the year”. The outhalf regularly steadied the ship in what was a tough season for these young Buccs with his consistent and enterprising endeavours. Local lad Dominic Griffiths was awarded the “OYSTER HOMES Buccaneers Reserves Player of the year” accolade. The versatile young back also gained invaluable experience with regular first team appearances throughout the season during which he won a Connacht Senior League title.

Athlonian Thomas “Mossy” Turley was the only forward to receive an award, being named “OYSTER HOMES Buccaneers Thirds Player of the year”. The fiery and committed displays of this back-row forward ensured his team were always in with a chance of victory, and he has the potential to play at a higher level.

Club President Austin Reid thanked all players and coaches, at all grades from adult to youths and minis, for their endeavours throughout a lengthy season. The feat of the U-15’s in capturing the Connacht League title that night was highlighted and Austin congratulated Adam Kennedy and Mark Dolan, who played with Ireland’s U-18 European finalists, and Trevor Conneely, who was capped by Ireland U-20’s. He thanked Oyster Homes for their loyal and significant title sponsorship.

Leo Galvin, representing the I.R.F.U., presented the AIB League Division 2 winners trophy to Niall O’Hara and complimented Buccaneers on a quick return to the Division 1 where Connacht now had two clubs. He wished Buccaneers the best of luck for next season. He also presented League winners medals to all the first team members present.

David Daffy, Financial Director of title sponsors Oyster Homes, presented the “Oyster Homes Buccaneers player of the year” trophies to the winning quartet and also made presentations to the trio of rising Ireland stars acknowledging their Irish caps.