Three Connacht and Ireland rugby players have been honoured at a mayoral reception in City Hall this week.
Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham and Mack Hansen were honoured by Galway City Council for their sporting achievements in this year’s Six Nations, at the Rugby World Cup, and as part of the Connacht Rugby squad.
Cllr Eddie Hoare, Mayor of the City of Galway, said: “Every try, every point, every ruck, every line out, every throw in – whether we were in Knocknacarra or Westside or Mervue or France – we were there with you at the Rugby World Cup…”
“All of us are here today to acknowledge you – your sporting prowess, your dedication, your sportsmanship – that is an example to any young player in any sport.
“There’s no doubt you have inspired a new generation of rugby players in Galway and in Ireland. We have a number of clubs in the city with boys and girls taking to the pitch every day of the week, inspired by what you did at the World Cup, the Six Nations, and in Connacht Rugby.
“Your energy, your physicality, your prowess – the preparation you put in – are an example to them…We share our gratitude and thanks to your families, friends and teams at home, who set you on the course to be here with us today in Ireland.”
The Mayor recognised the essential work of Connacht Rugby in bringing world-class players to the province. Mayor Hoare closed the event by wishing all in Connacht Rugby the best for the remainder of their 2023 Fixtures, and in 2024.
