Fred Casey Receives Guinness Rugby Writers Of Ireland Award

Cork Constitution stalwart Fred Casey received the Tom Rooney award at last night’s Guinness Ireland Rugby Writers award ceremony for his contribution to underage rugby.

Fred has been instrumental in the development of Cork Con’s underage players for over fifty years and has been recognised for his countless hours organising matches and training sessions.

Throughout the decades Fred has been heralded for his underage tours and has developed many rugby club contacts abroad. Under his leadership the Cork Con youths have toured England, Wales, France, Greece and Italy and it is credit to both Fred and his coaches that their young rugby charges have been such great ambassadors for the game, their club and Irish rugby.

In 1990 the IRFU asked Fred to bring the Con U11s and U12s to represent Ireland in the European Championship at Roche-La-Moliere, near St Etienne in France. When both sides won their age groups, Casey became the first coach to bring a European title home to Munster! The Con U12 half back partnership that year comprised of Munster and Ireland legends Peter Stringer and Ronan O’Gara and at last night’s awards Fred reminded us it was then that the players won their first European Cup.

Fred Casey of @CorkCon reminds us that @stringer9 & @RonanOGara10 won their 1st European Cup at U12s in France! ? #RWIAwards

— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) August 11, 2015

Since 1964 Fred has seen many players come through Cork Con and go on to play for Munster, Ireland and the British & Irish Lions. Some of the players he has coached include Ronan O'Gara, Peter Stringer, Peter O'Mahony, Michael Bradley, Ralph Keyes, Mick O'Driscoll, Billy Holland and Simon Zebo.

Acknowledging his contributions to domestic rugby Bertie Smith, Munster Rugby President said “Freddie has been involved in rugby at Cork Constitution for a long number of years. He has coached many age grades but in more recent times the U12 and U13 age groups.

“The wide array of different countries and rugby cultures experienced by the kids and the number of provincial and international players who were inspired by Fred speaks volumes for his ability as a coach and dedication to the game.”

“Freddie is most deserving of this award for the many hours, days, weeks and months he has put into the coaching of young players”.

Following last night’s ceremony Fred said “I am honored to receive this award and it is a privilege to be involved with Cork Con and in particular the underage section.

“I have loved being part of domestic rugby for so many years and hope to continue for many more. Hopefully the international players that started their rugby at Cork Con will keep coming through the ranks and I wish Peter, Simon and Ireland the best of luck on Saturday.”