Former Ireland, Munster and Lions fly-half Ronan O'Gara will be inducted into the Irupa Hall of Fame, after being selected for the honour by a panel of past players.
O'Gara will join names such as Anthony Foley, David Humphreys, David Wallace, Girvan Dempsey and Eric Elwood in the Hall of Fame at the Zurich Irish Rugby Players' Awards next week.
O’Gara’s professional career spanned 17 years, amassing 128 International caps. He will be forever remembered by fans for his sublime last minute drop-goal against Wales, securing Ireland’s first Grand Slam victory in 61 years.
“It was a very nice surprise to get the call from IRUPA to inform me that the past players of Ireland had voted for me to be inducted into the BNY Mellon Hall of Fame. I have had the honour to play with incredible players throughout my career and without their drive and support I would not have had the career that I did. I am very honoured to be in amongst legends of Irish Rugby,” the 39-year-old said.
O’Gara made his international debut for Ireland against Scotland in the Six Nations at Lansdowne Road in 2000 before going on to make the number 10 jersey his own for 13 years.
“Ronan’s passion for his province and country and his love for the sport was evident each time he stepped on the field. His career is littered with moments of genius, however beneath that was a relentless work ethic and a will to succeed. He was a leader both on and off of the field and continues to demand excellence in his position in Racing Metro. Ronan is undisputedly one of the few players of this great game that has inspired a generation of children to pick up a rugby ball,” said Irupa CEO Omar Hassanein.
