Our Paulie ties the knot
As the man himself gets married this weekend, we thought we would bring you some Paul O'Connell highlights.
The Limerick man has pretty much been the apple of our eye since making his debut for Munster rugby in 2001.
A fresh-faced debutant.
Having debuted for Ireland against Wales in the 2002 Six Nations Championship, O'Connell went on to the Rugby World Cup in 2003, an experience he clearly enjoyed.
He was a key player in the Munster team that defeated Biarritz in the 2006 Heineken Cup Final.
By 2007 he was captaining the team, leading Munster to their second Heineken Cup victory in 2008.
The following year he was part of the Irish team that won the Grand Slam.
He got his just reward that year of the Lions captaincy for the tour in South Africa, although he seemed to be more concerned about his previous experience of putting highlights in his hair as being,"a bit gay."
Lately, he has been no stranger to injury, his most recent tragically ruling him out of the Lions tour after the first Test against Australia. Still, the fans worshipped him though.
The side couldn't be without Paulie though and he stayed on for the remainder of the tour in a coaching role.
Our sympathy usually lies with the paramedics however who are tasked with carrying the 6ft 6in man to safety.
A testament to the pride his county have in the 33-year-old, O'Connell was awarded the Freedom of Limerick City in a ceremony in April 2012.
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He is as popular among his team mates as he is among his fans. Even though that friendship might not be reciprocated towards a certain side from the east of the country.
And despite once declaring on national TV that Donnacha O'Callaghan uses sun beds.
His popularity could stem from a fear factor, considering his ability to put the fear of God into his team mates.
O'Connell's willingness to show a softer side is part and parcel of his charm.
His latest role in the Pinergy adverts brings a smile to all our faces.
As does this pic of Paul wearing a Liverpool kit on his stag.
Paul O'Connell on his stag in Lahinch now #legend #calmdown pic.twitter.com/jsU7ntb0KM
— Niall McGarry (@MrNiallMcGarry) July 13, 2013
Standing on the shoulders of giants. Paul pictured here with son Paddy who was born in April 2010
Mrs O'Connell to be, you're a lucky gal ;)
All photos courtesy of INPHO and Sportsfile.
