Front row 'cornerstone' to leave Connacht after 17 years

Connacht’s second-most-capped player, Denis Buckley, will leave the province at the end of the season after 17 years service.

Buckley, 35, joined Connacht’s academy in 2009 and made his senior debut in September 2011, coming off the bench against Benetton Treviso in the PRO12.

A cornerstone of the front row since then, the prop has clocked up 275 appearances, and was a member of the wider squad that won the Guinness PRO12 in 2016.

“After 17 incredible years, the time has come for me to move on from Connacht Rugby,” he confirmed.

“It’s hard to put into words what this place has meant to me. From pulling on the jersey for my first cap against Treviso in 2011 or to reaching 275 caps and becoming the second-most-capped player in the club’s history, every moment has been a privilege.

“To be part of this club’s journey and to share the pitch with so many great teammates, coaches, and staff has been something I’ll always be proud of.

“A huge thank you to everyone behind the scenes who keep the wheels turning, and to the fans who have supported us through the highs and the lows — your passion never goes unnoticed and it means more than you know.

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to Creggs RFC — not only for introducing me to the game, but for the constant support behind the scenes, from my early days in underage and Connacht development squads right through my career.

“Most importantly, I want to thank my family for their constant support through every challenge and milestone along the way. And to my wife Gillie — thank you for everything you’ve sacrificed, for your patience, and for being such a steady support.

“I’m so excited for what the future holds for us, especially with the recent arrival of our beautiful daughter, Clodagh.

“As for what’s next, I’m still exploring potential opportunities and I’ll make an announcement on my future in the coming weeks. Whatever happens, I’ll always look back on my time here with huge pride and gratitude.

“Connacht will always be home.”