The Gueinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Awards shortlist

LiINDA Djougang, Erin King, Aoife Wafer, Brittany Hogan, and Aoife Dalton are nominated for the Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Women’s XV Player of the Year, following another season of impressive performances.
Tadhg Beirne, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Jack Conan, and Jamison Gibson-Park headline the shortlist for the Men’s XV Player of the Year Award.
Tuesday, 21st October 2025: The Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland have today announced the nominees for the annual Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Awards 2025. A landmark season for the Ireland Women’s XV side is reflected in the nominations for the Women’s XV’s Player of the Year: Linda Djougang, Aoife Wafer, Brittany Hogan, and Aoife Dalton, all of whom played pivotal roles in the recent Rugby World Cup campaign, alongside Erin King, nominated for her outstanding contributions this season despite injury. Having qualified for this year’s Rugby World Cup last season, the Irish Women’s XV continued their upward trajectory in 2025, reaching a Rugby World Cup quarter-final for only the second time ever.
Recognised for their captivating displays for both province and country throughout the season, and as key members of the British & Irish Lions squad, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Jack Conan, Jamison Gibson-Park, and Tadhg Beirne are all nominated for the prestigious 2025 Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Men’s XV Player of the Year Award. Their consistent excellence at the highest level was a hallmark of the year.
Despite a challenging season for both squads, the individual resilience and dedication of the Ireland Sevens players shone through. Nominated for Ireland Men’s 7s Player of the Year are Niall Comerford, Dylan O’Grady, and Mark Roche, recognised for their unwavering commitment during the programme’s final season. Vying for the Women’s 7s Player of the Year title are Lucinda Kinghan, Hannah Clarke, and Kate Farrell-McCabe, whose individual efforts continued to drive competitive performances.
The coveted Dave Guiney Team of the Year accolade sees three formidable contenders: Leinster Rugby, the Ireland Women’s XV, and the British & Irish Lions. Each team delivered memorable campaigns, with Leinster continuing their domestic and European success with a URC title and Champions Cup semi-final appearance. The Ireland Women’s XV achieved a historic win over the Black Ferns in WXV1 in September continuing their impressive season into an inspiring Rugby World Cup campaign, the first since 2017. The British & Irish Lions clinched a hard-fought 2-1 series victory over the Wallabies in Australia, featuring the strongest Irish contingent ever on the coaching and playing front.
John Fallon, Chair of the Rugby Writers of Ireland, commented: “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate all the players and teams nominated for this year’s Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Awards. The past season has been a truly memorable one, marked by significant achievements such as the Ireland Women’s historic Rugby World Cup quarter-final, Leinster’s URC triumph, and the Lions’ compelling series win in Australia. The talent and dedication displayed across all categories is immense, and we look forward to celebrating these outstanding contributions. Our sincere thanks, as always, go to Guinness for their continued and invaluable partnership.”
Rory Sheridan, Head of Partnerships for Diageo, added: “The 2025 season has delivered inspiring moments across all levels of Irish rugby. From the British & Irish Lions tour, the Ireland Women’s and Men’s teams, and our provinces, there has been some truly thrilling competition. Guinness is incredibly proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the Rugby Writers of Ireland, whose tireless work in capturing and sharing the stories of Irish rugby is invaluable. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the nominees, whose passion and resolve continue to inspire fans nationwide and look forward to a memorable evening honouring their achievements.”
ENDS
For further details, please contact:
Hannah Collins, hannah.collins@ogilvy.com, 085 245 4000
Maeve Og O’Leary, maeveog.oleary@ogilvy.com, 087 194 6394
JJ Garth, JJ.Garth@ogilvy.com, 087 6122142
List of 2025 Guiness Rugby Writers Award Nominees –
Women’s XV Player of the Year:
Linda Djougang
Erin King
Aoife Wafer
Brittany Hogan
Aoife Dalton
Men’s XV Player of the Year:
Tadhg Beirne
Andrew Porter
Dan Sheehan
Jack Conan
Jamison Gibson-Park
Men’s 7s Player of the Year:
Niall Comerford
Dylan O’Grady
Mark Roche
Women’s 7s Player of the Year:
Lucinda Kinghan
Hannah Clarke
Kate Farrell-McCabe
Dave Guiney Team of the Year:
Leinster Rugby
Ireland Women’s XV
British & Irish Lions

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