Check out all the sporting icons brought in to motivate the Irish rugby players last night
Inviting a sporting star who has succeeded in one code to offer a motivational speech to athletes in another sport is nothing new.
Alex Ferguson had a chat with Europe’s Ryder Cup team last year, and the skills of Jim McGuinness have been used by professional football and rugby teams in the UK.
The IRFU took that a step further last night - inviting Irish luminaries from five different sports to speak to Paul O’Connell and the team ahead of their crucial battle with France on Sunday.
Niall Quinn and Henry Shefflin were on hand to offer words of wisdom from the worlds of football and GAA.
Recently retired legend of racing Tony McCoy said it was a “privilege” to have been asked and said he had enjoyed the experience.
It was a very enjoyable evening and was real privilege to have been asked. #worldcupwinners🍀 https://t.co/u1vNuoqFbO
— AP McCoy (@AP_McCoy) October 8, 2015
Cork athlete Sonia O’Sullivan also spoke to the players, describing it afterwards as an “inspirational evening”.
Inspirational evening in a room full of like minded people chasing dreams #ShouldertoShoulder @IRFURugby thank you🍀 pic.twitter.com/dQVcNZLVEm
— sonia osullivan (@soniaagrith) October 8, 2015
And if that wasn’t enough motivation, a former world champion also popped into the Celtic Manor to add his few words.
Former WBA World featherweight champion Barry McGuigan said he was honoured to be asked to speak to the Irish rugby team.
Even better news for fans, he described them as “fired up” for Sunday’s final pool stage match.
What an honour to spend the evening with the @IrishRugbyTeam last night.There fired up for Sun gameVFrance #victory https://t.co/bvgzEoGv8b
— Barry McGuigan (@ClonesCyclone) October 8, 2015
In fairness, if they weren’t fired up after being spoken to by that company of legends - there would be no hope.
The players were delighted with their surprise guests.
A real privilege to meet & have dinner wit sporting legends @ShefflinHenry @soniaagrith @ClonesCyclone @AP_McCoy & Niall Quinn tonight!
— Rory Best (@RoryBest2) October 8, 2015
Brilliant night in camp getting to meet some serious Irish icons @ShefflinHenry @soniaagrith @ClonesCyclone @AP_McCoy and Niall Quinn
— Tommy Bowe (@TommyBowe) October 7, 2015
No excuses now lads, let’s get it done on Sunday!
