The Leinster League campaign had finished some weeks ago but with Kilkenny finishing in third position their future for next season was unclear. However, this was clarified last weekend when Navan were promoted to the AIL and Kilkenny were promoted to division 1.
The results went Kilkenny’s way and the players gathered together for a little celebration. It was no more than they deserved after a long hard campaign. This is a very good team and one with plenty of potential. They have a number of players playing senior rugby for the first time and the experience will benefit them next season. Team captain James Cody was delighted and has his sights set on continuing on the good run. Another happy club man was Ger McDonald who coached the team this season along with Paddy O’Driscoll whose main focus was on the backs. The man responsible for fitness was Eddie Sheehan while Nadya Borisova took care of medical problems. There were some outstanding performances during the year, and in particular from the younger players. Scrum half Ronan O’Driscoll at 19 years of age must have a bright future in the game. Winger Killian Everard was the top try scorer while centre Podge Mahon gave some brilliant performances. Full back Conor Phelan gave great confidence to the team with his solid play while the experience of Julian Hughes, Alan Pembroke and Mick O’Grady made a big contribution. In the forwards James Cody led from the front with support from Wayne Kavanagh and Brian Nolan. The return of Victor Ryan in the second row gave strength and purpose and allowed James Blanchfield win lineout ball at will. In the back row young players beginning to make an impression were Alan McIntyre, David O’Connor, John Phelan, and Conor O’Brien.
In the words of Ger McDonald it is a panel of players and an early and positive start to the season is very important. Kilkenny will play Garda, Enniscorthy, Wicklow, Tullow, Coolmine, New Ross, and Newbridge on a home and away basis.
