It is an honour to be appointed Monkstown captain for the upcoming 2026/27 season in the newly restructured AIL 2B South. On behalf of the senior squad and management, I want to welcome all players, members, officials, sponsors and supporters back to Sydney Parade. We are excited for the season ahead and look forward to sharing it with you.

Firstly, I would like to thank Tristan Brady for his leadership as captain over the past season. Tristan always drove standards and was easy to get behind and follow onto the rugby pitch. I would also like to thank departing player-coach Dave Cave for his tremendous efforts last year, as well as Sean Ruane and Cormac Murray for all their S&C work.

I want to thank outgoing President David “Manners” Mahon for all the support he has provided to the club and squad over the previous seasons. I must also give special mention to Robbie Whelan and Tommy Lehane for all their matchday work and organisation throughout last season. On behalf of the squad, I want to congratulate Donal Courtney on his appointment as Club President and wish him every success in his role.

Our incredible coaching staff of Paddy Thornton, Danny Riordan, Derek “Babs” Dowling, Diarmuid Murphy and new S&C coach Chris Williams kicked pre-season off at the start of July and have got us up and running for the season ahead. We look forward to showcasing all the hard work the lads have put in over the summer for us in the coming months. I am also delighted to announce Saul O’Carroll as Vice-Captain. Saul is an extremely committed and respected member of the playing group, as well as being one of the club’s top performers in recent seasons.

Finally, a huge thank you to our players, families, supporters, committee, sponsors, bar staff, ground staff and kitchen teams for everything you do for the club. Your support is what makes Sydney Parade special. We look forward to seeing you throughout the 2026/27 season and, together, making it one to remember.

Rob Wynne

Club Captain 2026/2027