Leinster heroes a big hit
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THE LEINSTER rugby revolution was taken to the fine surrounds of Park Lane last week, the home of Wexford Wanderers R.F.C., when the Heineken Cup kings of two seasons began began their preparations for the 2010-'11 campaign.
Wexford may be famous for its hurlers and footballers, but the era of professional rugby has brought a new expanse to the oval ball game, if one is to gauge from the huge numbers of supporters, particularly the under-age sector, who descended on the Wexford Wanderers grounds on Thursday afternoon last. There they saw their heroes in training, while being able to mingle with the greats of Irish rugby for an hour-long autograph and picture session in the afternoon.
The star players are a huge influence on the youth of the country. And like every supporter in the capital city of Dublin who can frequent training sessions on a regular basis, this was a unique opportunity for the young followers of Wexford town and surrounding areas to see Leinster train and bring the game of rugby to the town.
It was Leinster's first-ever visit to Wexford town for a week-long training programme. Having stayed in Whites Hotel, they undertook twice-daily sessions at Park Lane, while also taking in gym work in the hotel's state of the art gymnasium.
It was wonderful to see the likes of Irish captain, Brian O'Driscoll, Leinster captain, Leo Cullen, Wexford's own Gordon D'Arcy, back training where it all began, Gorey's Eoin Sheriff along with neighbour Seán O'Brien from Tullow, mingle with the young supporters, signing jerseys, autograph books and sweatshirts.
It was a proud moment for Leinster's Development Officer, Noel Feguson, who put in so much work to attract the province's Senior side to Wexford town, to get their season's preparations under way.
'These lads, who put so much into the game, particularly with the efforts and time they give to bringing the game out into the province, deserve everything they get out of it. They are a huge influence on the young up-and-coming players. In fact, I don't think the lads realise how much of an effect their presence has on the younger ones. You see, a whole generation of us grew up without these heady days. But this group of wonderful players have brought us to a new level and the youngsters are in awe of them,' he said.
This was a wonderful week for Wexford Wanderers who must be complimented on having the grounds and clubrooms in spanking condition for the visit of Leinster for the very first time. It was a real advertisement for clubs, and especially for our Welsh friends across the water, as to what the Model county club has to offer for pre-season training.
- BRENDAN FURLONG
