IRUPA Awards

IN TOUCHPROTECTING YOUR WELFARE, SECURING YOUR FUTURE

JUNE 2011 VOLUME 17

PROTECTING YOUR WELFARE, SECURING YOUR FUTURE

BRIAN O’DRISCOLL INTERVIEW

Player Services

Programme Update

CONTENTS

CEO ReportIRUPA CEO Omar Hassanein

IRUPA NewsThe most recent developments relating to IRUPA members & the world of rugby

Brian O’DriscollInterview with Brian O’Driscoll

Player’s Services Programme Update

IRUPA Awards

IRUPA Business Network

IRUPA Information & Directory

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Irish Rugby Union Payers Association, 66 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2, IrelandTel: +353 1 676 9680Web: www.irupa.ie

Published by: Clearpoint Media Ltd. on behalf of IRUPA. All rightsreserved. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part withoutpermission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is correct at the time of print, the publishers and IRUPA accept no responsibility whatsoever for any inaccuracies that may occur. All imagery copyright Sportsfile 2011

Clearpoint Media Ltd.1st Floor 24a Newtown Park Blackrock Co. Dublin Tel: 01-2056700E-mail: info@clearpointmedia.ie www.clearpointmedia.ie

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CONTENTS

3

This is one snack bar

you’ll want to tackle!

It’s crunch time!

Nature Valley and associated words and designs are trademarks of General Mills © 2011

Welcome to the 17th edition of In Touch magazine. Having only been involved at IRUPA since mid April, I’ve been humbled by the support I’ve received from players thus far, so for this I extend my gratitude. Through my combined experiences at the Rugby Union Players’ Association of Australia as well as through those as an ex-professional player, I will strive to promote the best possible employment conditions for all professional rugby players in Ireland, and I encourage you to get behind your association and do the same.

The first half of 2011 has no doubt been an exciting time for Irish rugby. Congratulations must go to Leinster and Munster for their respective successes throughout May, and with the 2011 RugbyWorld Cup just around the corner, it would certainly seem that key players are hitting form at the right time.

The start of May also marked the 9th annual IRUPA Awards, where a packed house of over 500 people turned out at Dublin’s Burlington Hotel to once again celebrate the performances of keyindividuals. My sincere gratitude goes out to Bord Gáis as title sponsors of the event for the third consecutive year, along with the individual award sponsors, Nature Valley, Volkswagon, O2, Nokiaand Newstalk.

Thank you also to all of the players that turned out to support their association and

recognise the achievements of their peers. A big congratulations to Ica Nacewa for being a worthy recipient of the Players’ Player award, along with all other award winners on the night.

As an organisation, IRUPA has recently welcomed several new members to its Board. The recent appointment of Brian O’Driscoll as Chairman is significant for the organisation, sending a strongmessage that senior players are looking to take ownership of their organisation and help set the best possible platform for generations of Irish rugby players to come. Brian will join player reps ShaneJennings, Rory Best, Paul O’Connell and Gavin Duffy in steering the direction of the organisation.

I’d also like to formally welcome to IRUPA Ken Belshaw and Padraig O’Ceidigh, two very successful and accomplished businessmen who will bring valuable knowledge and strong networks to IRUPA.Ken and Padraig will join Denis O’Brien as non-executive directors of the organisation.

Aside from all of these positives aspects, the remainder of 2011 will present IRUPA with a number of challenges. These include the negotiation of key industrial relations documents with the sport’sgoverning bodies, the sustainability and improvement of our overall insurance offering to players, the ongoing improvement of player medical conditions

as well as the securing of necessary fundswhich will allow us to continually improve our operations and deliver on our members needs.

In the area of Player Services we continue to receive strong support from the entire player group, however with a significant number of players currently transitioning in and out of Irish rugby; the programmes resources are being stretched. There is now a distinct need to employ additional staff to ensure that the same level of quality can continue to be delivered to the IRUPA membership.

Amongst all of these individual challenges however, the overriding challenge for IRUPA is to continually develop and strengthen our ongoing relationship with the IRFU and the provinces, as ultimately we all share the common goal of improving the success of Irish Rugby. In this vein, Iremain confident that we can work together in making processes more efficient and dynamic.

Finally, I’d like to wish outgoing CEO Niall Woods all the best in his future endeavours and also wish those players either retiring or moving further afield all the best. Also, to those of you heading tothe World Cup in September... best of luck!

Omar HassaneinChief Executive

CEO REPORT

5JUNE 2011

IRUPA NEWS6 JUNE 2011

Padraig Ó CeidighWe are delighted to announce the addition of Padraig Ó Ceidigh as non-Executive director to the IRUPA board of directors. Padraig is currently Chairman of Aer Arann and is directly responsible for its transformation from a small scale island hopping air service into one of Europes fastest growing airlines.

This extremely driven and successful entrepreneur has a very diversified background having trained as an accountant, taught as a secondary school teacher and even practiced as a solicitor. Padraig has been active in founding and developing various business thoughout Ireland, including the Irish-language newspaper, Foinse; an outsourcing operation (Fuinseog); a printing company (Clódóirí Lurgan); and the Galway Aviation Services and as a result in 2002 he was named the Ernst and Young Irish Entrepreneur of the Year, a year that also saw him receive the Bank of Ireland Alumni Award for Business and Commerce for his achievements and contribution to Irish society and economy.

In 2004 he was named world entrepreneur of the year (where he has since been invited back twice as a judge), in addition to receiving the Galway Person of the Year award. More recently Padraig , who is a native Irish speaker, was appointed adjunct professor in the School of Business & Economics, wherein he has been key to the design, development and roll out of an initiative focusing on the MBA career and professional development mentoring programme. He is also one of only three people to be awarded an honorary membership of the MBA Association of Ireland. His vast diversified experience and knowledge will make him a fantastic resource to IRUPA and its members, we thank Padraig for accepting the post and are eagerly looking forward to working with him over the coming year.

IRFU Assistant Coaches Level 2 CourseAugust 27th (Saturday) - August 28th (Sunday) - Stage 4 Rugby

Cost €150 – Includes all meals, refreshments, resources and facilities.

AccommodationConfirmed attendees may arrange accommodation directly with Marriott Johnstown Hotel in Enfield, Co. Meath(Special IRFU rates available for single, twin and three bed apartments on request from the hotel, subject to availability)

Applications must be made to your provincial development office by – Friday 17th June 2011.

Please NoteApplications to be sent to your Rugby Development Office.

Connacht Branch (091 560096),The Sportsground, College Road, Galway - Eamonn Molloy

Leinster Branch (01 2693224),55 Main Street, Donnybrook, D.4 – Phil Lawlor

Munster Branch (021 4323693),Musgrave Park, Pearse Road, Ballyphehane, Cork – Ultan O’Callaghan

Ulster Branch – 028 90493111Ravenhill Grounds, 85 Ravenhill Park, Belfast BT6 0DG – Alistair Brown

Also a reminder for those interested in short courses that your local community Colleges offer a wide variety of general interest courses commencing in September.

If you have any queries regarding any course options don’t hesitate to contact your PSA Hamish Adams.

IRUPA NEWS 7JUNE 2011

KEN BELSHAW

As Co-founder and Director of The Grafton Employment Group, Ken Belshaw has organically grown the organisation from a single branch on Dublin’s Grafton Street in 1982; to what is now one of Ireland’s largest employment solutions provider, growing an international force employing 700 people and operating across a global network of 70 offices in 16 countries. From its humble beginnings in 1982, the company worldwide now has a turnover of £100million.

Originally from Belfast Ken spent his early career in Advertising with a leading advertising agency and Maxol petroleum. Ken commenced his recruitment career in 1975 in Edinburgh working in telesales for Hestair Plc. He progressed to Branch Manager in Edinburgh and to General Manager in London. In 1979 he moved to Dublin and was part of the partnership which formed Marlborough Employment. In 1983 he combined with James Kilbane to establish Grafton Recruitment in Grafton Street, Dublin and was the company’s first Managing Director.

Ken is one of the most highly regarded and influential individuals on the Irish business scene. Well-known for his entrepreneurial flair matched with an impeccable international business track record, Ken has numerous accolades to his name having driven Grafton to the leading position in Irish Recruitment.In recognition of Ken’s achievements in international business, he was the first Irish person to be awarded the Gratias Agit Award for services to the Czech Republic (along with the King of Cambodia and Madeleine Albright), due to his tireless promotion of the Czech Republic abroad.

“Ken is one of the most highly regarded and influential individuals on the Irish business scene. Well-known for his entrepreneurial

flair matched with an impeccable international business track record, Ken has numerous

accolades to his name having driven Grafton to the leading position in Irish Recruitment.”

Ulster Rugby Mean BusinessThe Irish Rugby Union Players Association (IRUPA) in conjunction with Grafton Employment Group and University of Ulster, have launched the ‘Ulster Rugby Mean Business’ mentoring programme which aims to support players in securing a future career when their rugby playing days are over.

As part of the ‘Ulster Rugby Mean Business’ mentoring programme, University of Ulster and Grafton Employment Group will together support Ulster Rugby players in furthering their education and developing complimentary skills that will ensure that they are in a position to support themselves after their sporting career ends.

IRUPA is charged with protecting player welfare and securing players futures in and beyond rugby and Ulster Rugby is the main professional team of any sport in Northern Ireland. Rugby players on the whole will not earn enough to retire on and far too often, after many years of commitment, injury and performance can end their contracts whilst they are still young men. Therefore, development of an alternative skill-set whilst actively playing is essential in order for players to ensure they have a viable secure future in later years.

Hamish Adams, the Player Services Advisor with IRUPA, says that it is essential for players to be able to support themselves when the rugby career finishes.

“Individual players in rugby will not earn anything like the enormous salaries commanded by Premiership Football players and with an average career span of only 6 years at international level, we continually try to reinforce the importance of our players maintaining a balanced education and undergoing professional training to ensure that they have a viable secure future. The transitional period after retirement can be a particularly difficult time for players and we actively encourage all our members to up skill whilst in pro-rugby to assist in this major life change.”

The ‘Business Mentoring’ initiative has been welcomed by the squad and Rory Best, the IRUPA representative and Captain of Ulster Rugby, also advocates the importance of keeping an eye on professional development. “Rugby can be a cruel game at times with injuries and age taking their toll on all of us. It is imperative that we continue to promote and assist everyone to develop themselves professionally for the day when rugby finishes.”

BRIAN O’ DRISCOLLINTERVIEW

In touch magazine talks to Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll about his new role with Irupa, the importance of the players union and the challenges it faces in the years ahead.

Q.Describe your new role as chairman of IRUPA, taking over from Marcus Horan?

B. O’Driscoll: I’m learning as I go. A lot of it is not about my role, it is about interaction with Omar, who has replaced Niall and having a platform for him to get a players perspective. Also the role is about being part of the board from which the decisions are made on behalf of all the Irupa members. Its also fielding queries from members and bringing them back to Omar and the board and it’s a role that I’ll be finding new parts about the whole time. It doesn’t have one specific role, it’s a bit of finding your feet and discovering as people come to you.

Q. It is also great to see some experienced faces getting involved with IRUPA now this year with yourself, Paul O’Connell and Rory Best stepping into new postions…

B O’Driscoll: Yeah and in fairness to Niall Woods he has done a great job with IRUPA but I think if we are to bring the union on to the next level what is hugely important is player power and having some senior players within the set up it is more beneficial to us as they probably have people’s ear a liitle bit more and hopefully be able to use that to the benefit of all the players.

Q. Have you seen the importance of the players union grow over your careeer?

B. O’Driscoll: Without a shadow of a doubt. A little bit of it was probably down to a realisation that what mightn’t necessarily be beneficial to yourself is hugely beneficial to others. In a way it is also about trying to put something back into what I’ve gotten as a professional player for 12 years and using my position a little for the benefit of others. Its hugely important to have a powerful union for the safeguard of players and for the unity of the players into the future.

Q. Would you say that unity was there as much in the 90’s or in the early days of professionalism?

B. O’Driscoll: I think, like with anything new, and certainly with the first few years, people might have been a bit sceptical, but the more we build it and the more we show how important the union is to players, the more they will buy into the union. The union will only be as powerful as what everyone that buys into it makes it. That has to be first and foremost an understanding of all the members as to what the union is about.

“..what is hugely important is player power and having some senior

players within the set up it is more beneficial to us as they probably

have people’s ear a liitle bit more and hopefully be able to use that to the

benefit of all the players.”

By Trevor Hogan.

8 JUNE 2011

9

Q. What are your first impressions of Omar Hassanein, the new CEO?

B. O’Driscoll: Yeah I have met him and he seems like a really good guy, obviously he has a wealth of experience having been in the Australian union. I think its good to have an outsider coming in that perhaps hasn’t got previous ties to players so he can come in with fresh ideas, fresh thoughts and bring in a new impetus to our set up. Obviously the Australian players union is a powerful entity and hopefully he can use some of the things he has learned from his experiences in that and reproduce that within our union.

Q. How do you see IRUPA developing over the next few years?

B. O’Driscoll: IRUPA is all encompassing and its key is the power of the combined total of all the players, of all the members. It is not about any individual. It is about us all together, being one unit and that’s the way we have to be in the future. Sure at times not everyone is not going to agree on everything but we have to understand that decisions are going to be made for the betterment of the majority of people and not everyone is fortunate to have a long 10 or 12 year career so we have to make sure that those guys that are coming in need to have an understanding. They need to be aware, to work on other aspects of their lives so they can prepare themselves for the rainy day or whenever their career finishes.

BRIAN O’DRISCOLL

“Sure at times not everyone is not going to agree on

everything but we have to understand that decisions

are going to be made for the betterment of the majority of people and not everyone is fortunate to have a long 10

or 12 year career so we have to make sure that those guys

that are coming in need to have an understanding.

They need to be aware, to work on other aspects of their

lives. . . . ”

9JUNE 2011

PLAYER SERVICES PROGRAMME UPDATE

After eight years as a professional player in Connacht and 97 caps for the province of his birth, Conor has had to retire this season due to a serious hip injury. However, this enthusiastic and committed individual is extremely positive about his future. “I was fortunate to identify early in my career that I did have plenty of time for other activities, initially it was play station and hanging out with the lads but something clicked inside me and I committed myself to further studies as I recognised that rugby would end sooner rather than later.”

After graduating from UCC with a degree in Business Information Systems, Conor completed a Masters in Finance from Smurfit in Dublin and is currently working towards his Level 2 Chartered Financial Analyst certification. A career in financial services beckons and I have no doubt Conor will be as successful off the pitch as on it.

Conor has also been a valuable contributor to IRUPA over the last two seasons in his role as player representative.

“As a member of IRUPA you don’t always understand the amount of work going on behind the scenes and in recent months the support I have received to assist me in my transition out of rugby has been invaluable. The value of IRUPA to all professional players in Ireland is often under-estimated but at some stage during their career all players will need help from IRUPA”.

Conor has been very pro-active in developing career options for himself and has completed work experience placements and also taken on a mentor in recent months. Conor also wisely took out Arachas income protection many years ago so has the security of knowing he has a guaranteed income for the next few years.

Conor has fully utilized many of the resources on offer throughout his career and is in a positive position as he takes on the next phase of his life.

The certainty in every rugby player’s life is that they will retire, and whilst you may not be able to choose when, you can certainly ensure you are adequately prepared when that day comes. Why not take control of your future and contact me regarding the IRUPA Players Services Programme.

I can offer you a confidential advisory service to prepare you to make this difficult journey. I am available to assist you at any time so please feel free to contact me. Below are four success stories of individuals moving onto new challenges’ in their lives’.

Conor O’LoughlinHamish is an accredited Professional Member of the Irish Institute of Sport designated to deliver Lifestyle Support Services. If you would like to avail of the IRUPA Player Services Programme, please contact Hamish in the strictest confidence.

Hamish AdamsPlayer Services AdvisorIRUPAMobile +353 86 3502552Email: hamish.adams@irupa.ieWeb: www.irupa.ieSkype: hamishadams

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A talented backrow forward who has represented Ireland at Schools, Under 19 and Under 20 level, Paul moves on from Leinster Rugby at the end of the season after struggling to regain full fitness following a broken ankle.

The young Blackrock man is typically upbeat about his prospects in the market place and endorses the work of IRUPA in assisting his transition from a sporting career into the workplace. “The expertise that I have had access to from Career Consultants to work experience placements through IRUPA have really pointed me in the right direction. Already I have had several opportunities presented to me and a few weeks earlier I did not know where I was heading”.

Paul has also worked hard off the pitch during his time in the Leinster Academy graduating from UCD with a B.A. in Economics. Having the Degree completed has been a major factor in having so many doors opened for him in the present job market. “Mary Carroll and Kate Shanahan in Career Consultants have assisted me with CV development, interview technique and understanding the current job market, they have certainly emphasized the importance of continually up-skilling and building the CV to increase your options in the job market”.

For all players facing the transition out of rugby it can be a daunting task. The Player Services Programme specializes in assisting our members through the provision of necessary expertise and introductions. However, as in any walk of life this process must be driven by you.

Paul endorses the necessity of taking the initiative and explains “in professional rugby we have many decisions made for us in terms of when to train, what to wear, nutritional requirements but once in the job market you have to make decisions and communicate appropriately with many people, it does take time to adjust, IRUPA can assist you with this process”.

Paul recently accepted a graduate accountancy position with KPMG and we wish him well in his new career

Paul Ryan

“The expertise that I have had access to from Career Consultants

to work experience placements through IRUPA have really

pointed me in the right direction. Already I have had several

opportunities presented to me and a few weeks earlier I did not

know where I was heading”

JUNE 2011

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The “Bull” is finally calling time on his illustrious career in October of this year. As they say a fine wine gets better with age - so has the Bull. A late comer to rugby, his first match at the age of 18 for Bruff RFC was the start of a blossoming career that will conclude with over 200 caps for Munster and over 100 caps for Ireland for the Cappamore native.

So where to now for John? For the man who has achieved so much on the pitch John has also been a quiet achiever off the pitch, establishing a farming career with his family and in the last year taking on the Advanced Certificate in Agriculture delivered by Teagasc.

John certainly advocates the importance of up-skilling, “the study has been a new challenge for me, but it has given me a focus and exposed me to new ideas and developments in farming”.

John certainly acknowledges the difficulty of studying, farming, looking after a young family and playing professional rugby but he believes the benefits far exceed the challenges.

The personal discipline and skills he has developed whilst playing for Munster, Ireland and the Lions have certainly given him the confidence to take on these challenges.

John’s busy lifestyle certainly supports the many studies advocating the importance of an interest away from sport for all professional sportspeople. The ability to perform at a higher level of consistency on the pitch can certainly be influenced by being busy off the pitch and John can testify to this. “Throughout my career I have been busy working on the farm, it has always been a positive outlet for me and I definitely think it has given me a fresh focus away from rugby”.

After 13 seasons with Munster John’s durability is a testament to his levels of professionalism and we all wish him well for future challenges in his life. When asked if he will miss it all John is quick to reply “I have had a fantastic time with Munster and I know the time is right to move on”’ no regrets.

John Hayes

Flexible study options:>> www.lia.ie for QFA (financial advising exams)

>> www.collegeofselling.com/documents/ICMDiplomainProfessionalSelling.pdf for the Diploma in Professional Selling

>> www.pitman-training.ie for a variety of vocational courses

>> www.setantacollege.com for fitness courses

>> www.hiberniacollege.net for online Post Graduate Diplomas in Primary and Secondary Teaching

JUNE 2011

“For the man who has achieved so much on the pitch, John

has also been a quiet achiever off the pitch, establishing a

farming career with his family and in the last year taking on the Advanced Certificate in

Agriculture delivered by Teagasc. ”

PLAYER SERVICES PROGRAMME

After four seasons and 45 caps as a professional player with Ulster, David has had to retire recently due to a hip injury. This quiet, strong character has had to call time on a very promising rugby career but will continue with his medical studies at Queens that have been on hold.

A product of the Ulster Academy, David’s leadership skills have been recognized by a number of coaches and have seen him captain the Ireland U19 and U21 teams in the IRB Rugby World Championships and the Ireland U20s to an unprecedented Grand Slam and Six Nations Championship double in 2007. He has also represented Ireland ‘A’ at the Churchill Cup.

David also endorses the importance of developing a career off the pitch whilst in professional rugby, “I am fortunate that Queens University allowed me to take a break from my medical studies when an opportunity came up with Ulster. Queens

also gave me some flexibility in working towards my Degree in Anatomy to keep me in study mode”. David also endorses the support IRUPA have given him whilst studying and also through his injury phase, “the IRUPA educational support and assistance in liaising with Queens was invaluable for me, for an academic institution to see the value placed on education whilst in a rugby career is very important”.

David has also wisely invested in his future through availing of the Arachas Pro-Protect product and now sees the value of the scheme as he continues through his medical degree for the next three years having the peace of mind that he can meet his expenses.

I am sure we will see David on the rugby pitches again in the near future albeit in a different role as with his playing background he will have much to offer Irish Rugby as a medic.

David Pollock

“the IRUPA educational support and assistance in liaising with Queens was invaluable for me, for an academic institution

to see the value placed on education whilst in a rugby career is very important”.

The National Jobseekers Roadshow took place from May 13th to May 23rd and travelled around the country presenting to over 1200 jobseekers.The presentations gave advice to jobseekers on how to prepare a world class CV, interview techniques and the importance of detailing on your CV what you did well for a company, as opposed to just listing your responsibilities. This in order to differentiate yourself from your competition. Some interesting facts from the presentation revealed that 92% of CVs analysed by CPL had spelling or grammatical errors, and that 60% of jobs are never advertised, as employers prefer to get a personal recommendation to employ someone, instead of wading through hundreds of CVs, so networking is a key way to find a new job in the current climate. Also 70% of jobseekers surveyed felt that boredom and lack of self-esteem were the worst things about being unemployed. Questioned on who they thought had the best job in Ireland? Brian O’Driscoll, Ryan Tubridy and The President came up most frequently. The worst job in Ireland, Enda Kenny was the most mentioned.

The event was sponsored by CPL Recruitment who through Career’s Consultants offer you a range of career transition support services including:

IRUPA help launch National Jobseekers Roadshow

• Psychometric assessment• CV Generation• Competency based interview preparation• Mock Interview• Targeted Job Search• Networking

If would like to avail of the services of Career Consultants, contact Hamish Adams for further details.

Left to right is Omar Hassanein, Chief Executive, IRUPA, Anne Heraty, Chief Executive Officer, CPL

and Rob Kearney, Irish Rugby Player

CAREER CONSULTANTS JUNE 2011 13

15JUNE 2011

NACEWA BECOMES FIRST OVERSEAS PLAYER TO LAND THE BORD GÁIS ENERGY IRUPA PLAYERS’ PLAYER 2011

Leinster star Isa Nacewa, was last night voted the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Players’ Player of the Year by his fellow players at the ninth Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Rugby Awards. This is the first time an overseas player has won the top accolade and is just reward for his consistent but also outstanding performances this season. Connacht’s Fionn Carr was also among those recognised when he was awarded the IRUPA Volkswagen Try of the Year for his 70 yard effort away to the Scarlets.

Isa was his typical humble self after receiving the award saying: “This is the first time I’ve received an award in any country which has been voted for by my peers and I am overwhelmed to be honest that the other players in Ireland have chosen me. I’d like to thank all my team mates in Leinster who have made my job a lot easier”.

Nevin Spence of Ulster picked up the IRUPA Nature Valley Young Player of the Year for his try against Bath in the Heineken Cup and Leinster’s Richardt Strauss collected the IRUPA Nokia Unsung Hero Award. Joining Ireland’s heroes in the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Hall of Fame was Leinster legend, Malcolm O’Kelly. Sean O’Brien was also awarded the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Supporters’ Player of the Year, voted for by listeners of Newstalk106-108 fm.

Omar Hassanein, CEO of IRUPA said: “Winning an IRUPA award is the highest honour a player can receive. Those players can take great satisfaction from the fact that they have the total respect of those who they play with and against. Congratulations to all those nominated and in particular to Isa, Fionn, Richard, Nevin, Brian, Sean and Big Mal in winning what are the most sought after awards in Irish rugby.”Commenting on tonight’s awards John Mullins, CEO of Bord Gáis said: “Many congratulations are due to Isa on being honoured with the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Players’ Player of the Year. Leinster have reached their second Heineken Cup final in three years and Isa made an outstanding contribution to this feat on Saturday and indeed the run in to that victory over Toulouse.

“In a World Cup year it’s encouraging to see Irish rugby continuing to flourish and I’d like to acknowledge the great work IRUPA does in supporting the players who make this possible. The turn out of top stars tonight is clear testament of the high regard in which they hold the organisation and Bord Gáis Energy is proud to be a part of that.”

The O2 Rugby Moment of the Year was also announced at the awards with Brian O’Driscoll taking home the award for his record breaking try against England to break the Six Nations Championship try scoring record which stood for 78 years.

Isa Nacewa is presented with the Player of the Year award by John Mullins, CEO, Bord Gáis Energy

16 JUNE 2011

Fionn Carr of Connacht is presented with Try of the Year Award by Adam Chamberlain, Sales Director, Volkswagen

IRUPA AWARDS

All images thanks to Brendan Moran / SPORTSFILE

Brian O’Driscoll, of Leinster, is presented with the O2 Rugby Moment of the Year by Enda Lynch, Sponsorship Manager, O2

AWARD WINNERS ARE AS FOLLOWS......

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Award winners are as follows: BORD GÁIS ENERGY IRUPA PLAYERS’ PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2011Winner: Isa Nacewa Nominations: Keith Earls Isa Nacewa Sean O’Brien

IRUPA NOKIA UNSUNG HERO OF THE YEAR 2011Winner: Richardt Strauss Nominations : Willie Faloon Wian du Preez Richardt Strauss

IRUPA NATURE VALLEY YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2011Winner: Nevin Spence Nominations: Conor Murray Rhys Ruddock Nevin Spence

IRUPA BORD GÁIS ENERGY HALL OF FAME 2011Inducted: Malcolm O’Kelly IRUPA VOLKSWAGEN TRY OF YEAR 2011Winner: Fionn Carr Nominations: Fionn Carr Craig Gilroy Isa Nacewa

IRUPA BORD GAIS ENERGY SUPPORTERS’ PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2011 Sean O’Brien

IRUPA O2 RUGBY MOMENT OF THE YEAR 2011 Brian O’Driscoll

JUNE 2011

Sean O’Brien of Leinster, is presented with the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Supporters Player of the Year, as voted by the listeners of Newstalk 106-108FM, by Irene Gowing, left, of Bord Gáris Energy and Emma Gavagan, Head of Marketing, Newstalk 106-108FM

Ulster’s Andrew Trimble, on behalf of team-mate Nevin Spence, receives the IRUPA Nature Valley Young Player of the Year award from Shane Dunne, Brand Manager, Nature Valley

Former Leinster and Ireland second row forward Malcolm O’Kelly, left, who was inducted with the Bord Gais Energy Hall of Fame, is presented with his award by Jason Scagell, Managing Director, Bord Gáis Energy, at the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Players Awards. Burlington Hotel, Dublin.

Richardt Strauss, right, of Leinster, is presented with the IRUPA Nokia Unsung Hero Award by Alan O’Hara, General Manager, Nokia Ireland, at the Bord Gáis Energy IRUPA Players Awards

We are often asked if it makes financial sense for players & coaches to take a company car provided by virtue of an employment, with the related Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax charge, or whether it is preferable to acquire and fund a car personally.

While the BIK tax cost can appear high, an employer provided car is a cheaper option for the individual as illustrated below.

HOW IS THE BIK TAX CHARGE CALCULATED ?

BIK is calculated by reference to the “cash equivalent” of the company car i.e. 30% of the Original Market Value (OMV) of the company car. This is irrespective of the element of costs covered by the employer.

COMPARISON OF COSTS

Ø John is provided with a VW Passat valued @ €35,000 from his employer in 2011. John’s employer meets all costs of running the car, including fuel, road tax and insurance costs. The BIK cost is illustrated below:

Value of Car €35,000BIK (€35,000 x 30%) €10,500Tax, PRSI & USC @ 52% €5,460 – Cost to employee

Ø John personally leases a VW Passat also valued @ €35,000. His annual costs for 2011 are estimated as follows:

Cost of Lease Repayments (Estimated) €7,000Petrol Costs (Estimated €70 per week) €3,640Insurance (Estimated) €1,350Tax (Estimated) €447Servicing/Repairs (Estimated) €1,000

Total Costs €13,437 – Cost to employee

Based on a marginal income tax rate of 52%, John will need to earn a gross income of €27,994 (i.e. €13,437/48%) in order to receive after tax income of €13,437, and be in a position to discharge all the costs listed above, associated with his personal car lease.

As business mileage for most will be low, only a small proportion of running costs can be reclaimed from the employer.

By comparing the costs associated with both scenarios illustrated above, it is clear that a company car is a real benefit.

Ciarán Medlar, Partner, BDO, is head of Tax and BDO Sports Unit.

Company Cars... A Real Benefit?

The new O2 Money card

Put your money on it. Spend it wherever you see the Visa sign.

Top it up again.

ROI residents and over 18s only. Email address required. O2 Money card is issued by R. Raphael & Sons plc, trading as Raphaels Bank, authorised by the UK Financial Services Authority.Telefónica Ireland Ltd. administers and services the card on their behalf. Charges, limits and restrictions apply. Terms and conditions apply. See www.o2.ie/o2money.

Available in all O2 stores

O2 - 6956-A15 In Touch Magazine O2 Money Ad.indd 1 10/06/2011 12:54

21KEEP IN TOUCH

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All business will be listed on the member’s only section of www.irupa.ie Current Companies are:

GARBEAUMade to measure shirtsContact: Mike McCarthyM: +353 86 8511513www.garbeau.eu ROSARIO BIOENERGYAyacucho 1708, Rosario, ArgentinaContact Federico Pucciariello +353 87 050 9318Email: fpucciariello@rosariobioenergy.comwww.rosariobioenergy.com

FRONT ROWGuest Speaking and Celebrity Sourcing, Sports Management and Sponsorship Matching,Team Development and MotivationContact: Frankie SheahanMobile +353 878337080 Email: frankie@frontrow.ie www.frontrow.ie TREVOR BRENNAN RUGBY TOURSRugby tour packages including 6 Nations, Rugby World Cup, Heineken Cup and more.Contact: Mark PinsentPhone: 1890 200 095 or 353 1 4572311Email: mark@trevorbrennanrugbytours.comwww.trevorbrennanrugbytours.com

If you would like your business to be included please contact Hamish Adams on +353 86 350 2552 or email: hamish.adams@irupa.ie www.irupa.ie

Many of our members may be involved in a business venture, have set up their own companies or planning to do so in the near future. We hope to develop a business network for our members current and past to allow them to share information and contacts. The principle aim is to create a database of member’s with business interests and make this information available through In Touch and the member only section of the IRUPA website.

In this current economic environment, this network will further allow sharing of best practise and information as well as creating a network to open business opportunities to all our members and beyond. It is also hoped that the network will be beneficial to players planning their transition from rugby through work experience, mentoring and career advice.

Career ConsultantsCareer Management and Outplacement Consultants

Career Consultanats work with both organisations and individuals covering the following:

ORGANISATIONS INDIVIDUALS:Outplacement Self Marketing/AppraisalPsychometric Assesments CV GenerationAssesment Centres PsychometricsChange Management Targeted Job SearchHRM Solutions Interview Preparation

We tailor our packages to suit all needs and budgers. For more information please contact us in confidence

Helping you to successfully navigate change and bring the future into focus

2nd Floor, 49 St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2. Tel: +353 (0)1 614 6113 Fax: +353 (0)1 614 7274

Email: info@careerconsultants.ie Web: www.careerconsultants.ie Part of the CPL Group

Career Consultants relationship with IRUPA started in 2010

To date we have worked with five players in the Republic of Ireland and we are happy to report that we have had 100% success in helping each one to find suitable employment.

Our approach is to provide guidance and motivation in helping each player to source new opportunities.

We help players review their career and experience to date, identify their achievements, build a strong CV and build on their personal brand.

We also provide direction on how to network effectively and the different ways of sourcing job opportunities.

Players are given tips and techniques for interviews and information on the different styles and types of interviews. We conduct mock interviews and we give detailed feedback and suggestions on areas that need more focus.

A broad range of psychometric assessments is offered, helping players to identify areas of interest and suitability.

Career Consultants is part of the Cpl Group and as a result we can leverage from a wealth of local market knowledge from our regional offices.

A typical transition programme which is covered in one-to-one consultations include the following:

CAREER CONSULTANTS JUNE 2011 23

If would like to avail of the services of Career Consultants, contact Hamish Adams for further details.

Rugby players invest a considerable amount of time, money and effort into rugby development. Many young players sacrifice academic achievement for success in their school rugby in order to access a professional rugby playing career.

Professional rugby careers are of relatively short duration and serious injury can shorten even further this limited career where average earnings are relatively low in comparison to other professions. The percentage of professional players with tertiary education is declining due to players going straight from school into academies. Without an educational insurance policy they are at risk of ending their careers without future economic security. It is incumbent upon not only the players but also their rugby club employers to not only develop their rugby playing talent but also to ensure their welfare and facilitate their professional and educational development. Several professional clubs have already successfully developed such an educational contractual obligation but it is desirable that such an opportunity be rolled out to all players.

This innovative and unique programme is supported by the IRFU, IRB, Leinster Rugby, IRUPA and selected English Premier League clubs. It targets current professional players seeking to upgrade existing qualifications, players planning retirement at the end of this season who wish to remain in rugby in a management capacity, and those rugby club management personnel wishing to enhance their management skill-set.

In addition, community rugby club management relies upon a vast range of personnel both volunteers and professionals who may wish to take advantage of one or more modules focussed on their specific role within the club.The programme may be taken either fulltime (11 months), part-time (22 months) or on an occasional basis (an indefinite period; continual professional development CPD). Whichever method students select involves them undertaking one module at a time which is offered on an intensive one week basis (5 days, 9-4, a 35hr wk). I look forward to receiving your enquiries.

Dr John ShuttleworthProgramme Director MSc Sport and Exercise Management University College DublinDublin 4IrelandJohn.shuttleworth@ucd.ie(00353) 17163458

John McCleanProgramme Coordinator Rugby Management StreamJohn.mcclean@ucd.ie(00353) 872354866

MSc Rugby Management

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN 25JUNE 2011

IRUPA DIRECTORY

IRUPA INFORMATION & DIRECTORY

WebsiteUpdated information on all player benefits and deals as well as Player Services Programme resources are available on the member’s only section of the IRUPA website www.irupa.ie.

All relevant details and contact names and numbers are available in this section also. IRUPA ContactsOmar HassaneinChief Executive +353 86 044 7955 oromar@irupa.ie Hamish Adams Player Services Advisor +353 86 350 2552 or hamish.adams@irupa.ie Sara Jane English Sponsorship & Communications +353 86 853 2970 orsarajane.english@irupa.ie IRUPA Executive BoardBrian O’DriscollChairmanGavin DuffyConnacht Shane Jennings LeinsterPaul O’Connell MunsterRory Best Ulster

Non Executive BoardDenis O’BrienKen BelshawPadraig Ó Ceidigh

OtherAlan MillerArachas: +353 87 649 4095 or alan.miller@arachas.ie Ciaran MedlarBDO +353 1 470 0280 orcmedlar@bdo.ie Peter McKennaMcKenna Durcan Solicitors +353 1 637 1910 or pmckenna@mckennadurcan.ie

Mark HillLG Electronics +44 1753 491 633 or hillm@lge.com Eva Rice, O2 Member Deal, Commercial Wireless +353 86 388 8132eva.rice@commercialwireless.ie

Suzann Keogh, Killeen Castle+353 1 689 3000suzannkeogh@killeencastle.com

Cathal McGlinchey, d4hotels+353 87 227 7008cm@d4hotels.ie

Tommy Conneely,Sportscode+353 86 855 5722info@avenirda.ie

Peter Connelly, Under Armour+ 353 87 2369092pconneely@underarmour.com

Maeve McCarey, Volkswagen+353 87 813 6339maeve.mccarey@vwgi.ie

Mary Carroll,Career Consultants+353 87 965 9063mary@careerconsultants.ie

John TutonMammoth Elite Sports Mattresses+ 0044 79 320 67263john@mammothsports.com

29JUNE 2011

Our Supporters

2nd Floor, 49 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2Tel: +353 (0)1 614 6113 Fax: +353 (0)1 614 7274Email: info@careerconsultants.ieWeb: www.careerconsultants.ie