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Ministers congratulate IRFU on remarkable treble at World Rugby Awards

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD and Minister of State with responsibility for Sport Brendan Griffin TD have this evening congratulated the IRFU on the remarkable achievement which saw Ireland pick up the Team of the Year, Joe Schmidt the Coach of the Year and Johnny Sexton crowned the World Rugby Player of the Year.

 

Speaking this evening Minister Ross said: “What we saw against the All Blacks was an unbelievable team performance to do something that hadn’t been done before, this group of players are very special and continue to raise our expectations, Joe has brought the team to a new level and these are indeed exciting times as we look forward to next year. Johnny Sexton has been that general on the field, and is a role model off it as well so it is fitting that he is crowned player of the year.

 

Minister Griffin said: “This is a historic treble for Irish Rugby, and one that is thoroughly deserved, the work rate and attitude from the whole squad is remarkable, and the consistency shown in the last year is down to that. Joe and Johnny have been driving forces behind this and very fittingly they have been recognised individually as well, but crucial it’s the team that is getting better and better, as we look forward to a World Cup year with excitement and expectation.”