Ultane Dillane is a man who owes nothing to Connacht rugby. He has been a true professional at the club, and seven seasons with the senior side and 127 caps later he bids farewell.
Yesterday it was confirmed that he would be leaving for Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle, current holders of the Champions Cup and one of the most sought after destinations for any ambitious player.
The Paris-born Dillane was part of eight signings announced yesterday by the French club, which included the confirmation of Teddy Thomas' transfer from Racing 92.
28 May 2016; Ultan Dillane of Connacht is tackled by Dave Kearney and Richardt Strauss of Leinster during the Guinness PRO12 Final match between Leinster and Connacht at BT Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland. Photo by Paul Devlin/Sportsfile
Dillane also won 19 caps for Ireland, making his debut in the 2016 Six Nations at Twickenham. It was an impressive first game and one would have expected more international caps over the years, but injuries and stiff competition held him back at times.
The highlight of his career however, as it was for many Connacht players of that era, was undoubtedly winning the PRO 14 title with Connacht in 2016.
His highlights below show his pace, athleticism, and strength, and why he was regarded as such an exciting prospect during his career.
On his departure from Connacht he had this to say:
“This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but ultimately I feel that the time has come for me to experience a new challenge in my career.
I am forever grateful to all the coaches and wider staff at Connacht I’ve worked with these past 10 years. You have all helped make my dream of becoming a professional and international rugby player a reality. I’ve also been fortunate to play alongside some incredible players both for Connacht and Ireland, and I have made some friends for life.
The Connacht supporters are among the best in the world and I’d like to thank them for all the support they’ve given me too. The West of Ireland will always be a special place to me.
I will be giving absolutely everything to finish my time in Connacht on a high, and help all of us to go on to have a really successful season. This is a team on the up and I’ll forever be a Connacht Rugby supporter.”
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