Departing Humphreys honoured by Ulster
by JP Lonergan, 16 May 2008
Just a week after lining out for Ulster for the final time, David Humphreys has been honoured as the Guinness Ulster Rugby Personality of the Year.
Ravenhill supporters gave Humphreys a standing ovation as he lined out against Cardiff Blues in last Friday’s final Magners League game of the season. Humphrey’s game was cut short by injury - he played just eight minutes of the defeat – but he was at least allowed to day a proper goodbye to the club when picking up his accolade at Thursday night’s awards ceremony at Belfast’s La Mon House Hotel.
After 16 years and 1,585 points for Ulster and 560 more for Ireland in his 72 caps, Humphreys was given great recognition by his peers, despite a season ravaged by Achilles problems.
Ulster chief executive Michael Reid said of the player: "At times David has been almost single-handedly responsible for raising the profile of Ulster Rugby, particularly on the international scene, reflected by the fact that earlier this month he was inducted into the IRUPA Hall of Fame.
"It is typical of the man he is, that when he looks back over his 163 appearances for Ulster, the seemingly smaller moments, the friendships, camaraderie and laughter will probably evoke memories just as powerful as those of his trophy achievements, a European Cup, a Celtic Cup and a Celtic League trophy and countless man-of-the-match Awards.
"David Humphreys is honoured, not just for what he has done for Ulster Rugby this year, but for what he has contributed to the Province throughout a career that spans over 16 years. It's hard to imagine what life at Ulster Rugby will be like without him next season."
Another outgoing star was the recipient of Ulster’s Bank of Ireland Player of Year award as Ospreys bound wing Tommy Bowe added the gong to his international Players' Player of the Year award.
The Vodafone Young Ulster Player of the year award went to Niall O'Connor, who made his breakthrough into Matt Williams’ side this term.
