Sligo native Niall O’Hara has been named club captain of Buccaneers as they return to division one rugby this season.
Niall came to the notice of Buccs during his student days through his exploits with Athlone Institute of Technology. He represented Connacht Schools and U-21s and was also capped by Ireland U-21s. A versatile back best noted at fullback but also capable of playing at standoff or on the wing, Niall first achieved success with Buccs when they won the Connacht Junior Cup in 2002.
Since then the bank official has added three Connacht senior cups and a Connacht senior league honours. The versatile back was match skipper for Buccaneers final seven matches last season, crucial games that the midlanders won to capture the AIB League division two crown. Niall is wished every success in this demanding role as Buccaneers look for a good campaign back in the topflight of Irish club rugby.
Three home matches for Buccaneers
Buccaneers have three home fixtures this weekend, top of the bill being the reserves clash with Tuam in the Connacht Junior League at Dubarry Park on Sunday, kick off 3pm. Buccs dearly need to take the points in this fixture but it will be a tough test against Tuam who will undoubtedly be dogged and physical. But if the new management structure in place can expand their squad and get more players back, then Buccs are well capable of winning.
The thirds also face Tuam in Athlone in a friendly that is their first taste of activity this season. Indeed, Dubarry Park looks like being a busy spot on Sunday as the U-20s are also in action taking on Blackrock College in what promises to be an attractive and entertaining friendly.
Meanwhile, the firsts hope to have a mid-week friendly away to Galwegians, possibly on Wednesday.
