My Job In Munster: Ken O’Connell

17th June 2015 By Munster Rugby

Former Munster and Ireland player Ken O’Connell is a Coach Development Officer at the province. He lives in White’s Cross, Cork with wife Sharon and their four children, two boys and two girls.

When did you join Munster?
I previously played for Munster and Ireland and began working for the province in June 2007.

What do you do?
I work in the domestic rugby department. I started out as an elite development officer in the academy and have worked with many of Munster's current internationals.?

I was also lucky to be a part of the coaching panel for the British & Irish Cup squad that won the title in Musgrave Park (Irish Independent Park) in 2012.

My role within the domestic game also includes 'Coaching the Coaches' and I am involved in facilitating numerous coaching courses. Recently I qualified as an IRFU tutor and enjoy presenting to the next generation of coaches.

What is the best part of your job?
Working with underage players. I also love being out on the pitch with the underage squads and I find it very rewarding seeing these guys go all the way.

In heading up a three-year programme for the Regional Development Squad at club level, it's great to work with like-minded people who are committed to developing future home-grown professional players which are vital to Munster's future successes.

Most memorable match?
I have two stand out moments – beating Leinster in the B&I Cup semi-final in the RDS in 2012 after extra-time is one of them, and winning the Schools Interprovincial title earlier this season is the other.