Munster to establish training base at University of Limerick

Munster will establish their main squad training centre at a new purpose-built facility at the University of Limerick which is expected to be fully operational from 2015.

At present the Munster squad train between bases in Limerick and Cork, but after a lengthy consultative process involving players, management, Munster officials and an independent outside consultant the move to a new state-of-the-art facility on the UL campus was ratified at Munster Branch Executive level earlier this week.

Matches will continue to be played at both Thomond Park and Musgrave Park, with plans in progress for an upgrade of facilities at the Cork venue where Munster will maintain its administration headquarters.

Proposals from the institutes of technology in both Limerick and Cork were also considered.

Munster Rugby chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald said. "We are very pleased that the process to identify this facility has been completed and confirmed.

“In looking forward to this new and enhanced association with UL, we acknowledge the interest we’ve had from LIT and CIT, the two other institutions who sought to accommodate Munster Rugby’s need for this facility. We look forward to continuing a working relationship with LIT and CIT in the coming years through projects on-going and new.”

UL president, Professor Don Barry welcomed the announcement, “I am delighted with Munster Rugby’s decision to base itself permanently on the UL campus. This significant development will cement the already strong relationship that exists between the University of Limerick and Munster Rugby and we look forward to building on this for the future.”