Munster Rugby President and CEO Message to Clubs and Schools
Munster Rugby President Mike Keane:
The current pandemic has caused upheaval for everyone – in a short space of time, we have had to completely re-organise our lives, both professionally and socially.
We are in a never-before-seen period of social distancing, isolation, uncertainty, new work practices and lifestyle changes.
The work of our frontline services is simply phenomenal – medical, fire, Garda, hauliers, retail staff, farmers, food producers etc – many of these are members of rugby clubs from around the province and all deserve our support. In addition, the support being given through various fundraising and volunteer schemes also makes one proud.
Albeit schools and colleges are closed, many of our young people are preparing for exams and are being supported by our teachers and lecturers through online resources. Many of our sportspeople are also providing support, through helpful tips about fitness, well-being and nutrition.
Our Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, has stated, "We are asking people to come together as a nation by staying apart from each other" – this means physical distancing but not social isolation – keep in contact with teammates, family, friends and neighbours. Communication was never as easy as it is today.
Many of us have family members in various parts of the world and we hope and pray that they too will be safe during this pandemic.
By virtue of its absence, the role sport plays in all our lives, and in society, is clearly visible. The IRFU and provinces took the unprecedented step of concluding the 2019/20 domestic rugby season, and while reaching a difficult decision, it was made in the interest of public health, which is paramount.
A virus, one of the oldest and simplest life forms on the planet, has reminded us that in this modern, fast paced world of technology, the simple things should not be forgotten – the health and support of family, friends, neighbours (particularly the elderly) and communities; thereafter, the value of our frontline services across all sectors.
Under the guidance of the Munster Rugby Board, the organisation is managing itself through the current crisis, and continues to plan for the future, as this will pass.
Stay Safe; Support each other by keeping in contact; Look out for our elderly neighbours.
We will rise by supporting each other.
Michael Keane
2019/20 Munster Rugby President
Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan:
In echoing Mike's words above, I just want to take this opportunity to expressly thank all of you that contributed to Munster Rugby's 2019/20 domestic season.
The volunteers of our game, the administrators, players and coaches, are the corner stone of our rugby community. Undoubtedly it was difficult to see the season conclude so early and we recognise that many people are disappointed. However, in prioritising the health and wellbeing of everyone it was the correct decision. Please know your commitment and effort throughout the season is much appreciated.
It is during these challenging times we learn to adapt, and we will continue to do so over the coming weeks or months. I can assure you that Munster Rugby will be ready when life returns to normal.
We have a big challenge on our hands, and we are very aware that you are facing similar challenges, but please know we will face these collectively and will get through this together by continuing to stand up and fight.
Sport has a unique capacity to inspire, to bring people together and to lift spirits. It may seem a long way off right now, but people will want to play rugby and watch rugby again, and as always, the clubs and schools of Munster Rugby will lead the way in this regard.
I am grateful to all of those making huge sacrifices for us daily in keeping us safe and allowing us to continue everyday life in this essential, but temporary, new way of living.
We hope that you and your club and school members keep well and stay safe.
Let's all continue to play our part in helping suppress the spread of Covid-19.
Best,
Ian Flanagan
Munster Rugby CEO
