Galway County Council honoured Connacht Rugby as Pro12 champions with a civic reception at County Hall on Monday evening.
Recalling the scenes of joy and jubilation in Galway during the team’s homecoming and the reception in Knock, County Cathaoirleach Michael Connolly said it vividly demonstrated what Connacht's success meant to the people of Galway and Connacht.
Connolly acknowledged the drive, ambition, determination and strong work ethic of the team under coach Pat Lam and captain John Muldoon, saying the skill, dedication and enjoyment they brought to the game made them most deserving Pro12 champions, while also maintaining close ties to the people and communities of Galway.
Chief executive Kevin Kelly acknowledged the support of Connacht Rugby for Galway’s bid for the European Capital of Culture 2020, saying he was confident the focus on increasing underage and schools participation, coupled with their success as Pro12 champions, would provide a new platform for the future growth and development of Connacht Rugby.
